Indian ride-hailing giant Ola has 'acquihired' Pikup.ai, an artificial intelligence start-up from Bengaluru. Pikup.ai, founded by Inder Singh and Ritwik Saikia, uses autonomous technologies like artificial intelligence, computer vision and sensor fusion to provide seamless AI-powered solutions for businesses. As part of the deal, the team at pikup.ai will join Ola.

In recent years, Ola has been increasing its focus on using advanced analytics and deep technology to build mobility solutions for India and the world. According to Ola, with its expertise in the segment and the availability of rich data, the application of Machine Learning and AI will enable the company to identify deep insights that can lead to improved mobility outcomes. This will include investments in early-stage businesses, acquisitions as well as acquihires across Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Vision and other emerging areas of deep technology.

"As we advance on our mission to build mobility for a billion people, we are investing in futuristic technology solutions that will shape the future of mobility in India and the world," said Ankit Bhakti, Co-founder and CTO of Ola.

"We are looking forward to joining Ola on its mission to build mobility for a billion people and are very excited about building meaningful technology solutions that have a deep impact on the lives of millions, every single day", said Inder Singh, co-founder of Pikup.ai

Earlier this year, Ola announced its intent to set up an Advanced Technology Centre in the San Francisco Bay area, to focus on developing next-generation technologies in mobility like Electric, Connected and Autonomous Vehicles.