Autonomy, a California-based startup, announced on Wednesday that it is expanding its vehicle subscription service to include internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This marks a shift from its original strategy, which focused exclusively on electric vehicles (EVs).
The new lineup will feature petrol-powered Ford models such as the Mustang, Ranger, F-150 pickups, and SUVs including the Bronco Sport, Escape, and Explorer. These vehicles are being sourced from Galpin Motors in Los Angeles and will initially be available to customers in California.
Autonomy's CEO, Fred Weick, stated that the pivot towards more familiar powertrains is intended to attract more customers. The company is targeting university students, military families, foreign workers, and individuals seeking a "company car" experience. Autonomy also operates in Arizona, Florida, Texas, New York, North Carolina, and Washington, and plans to work with other dealer partners in these markets.
The company had initially pledged in 2022 to acquire 23,000 EVs from 17 automakers for its subscription service. However, its fleet grew to just over 1,000 vehicles, and it faced significant challenges, including a loss of around a third of its fleet's value within a year, partly due to an EV price war.