Audi Snags Silvercar, Plans to Push Forward With Ride-Sharing

Silvercar and Audi have been working closely since 2012, and they snuggled up even tighter in 2015, when Audi participated in a $28 million series C investment in the rental company. They will soon take their relationship to a whole new level, as they prepare to shack up together.

That’s right, Audi and Silvercar have agreed to a full-on buyout by the German automaker. Audi expects no issues from regulatory bodies and anticipates completion of the deed in the first half of this year.

So, what does Audi want with Silvercar? Well, while small, Silvercar has been one of the most advanced car-rental companies in the U.S. It allows buyers to book, pay for, unlock, start, and return a car (a silver Audi A4, of course) all through an app. No lines, no paperwork, no stuffy rental agent trying to sell you BS insurance — none of that.

Audi hopes to take this technology and the brains that created this system, and integrate them into its own ride-sharing programs for corporations and individuals alike.

In its press release, Audi said, “Silvercar will continue to operate in close coordination with Audi of America to serve U.S. customers.” This leads me to believe Audi will allow Silvercar to operate on its own and continue to service customers who have fallen in love with its no-hassle systems while also contributing to Audi’s programs.

We’ll continue monitoring this blossoming relationship and bring you updates as they become available.