[npelly]

A lot of comments suggesting this is cynical compensation arbitrage by the DeepMap founders. I don't buy it.

I expect a startup was the only option to execute on the idea with a decent level of autonomy. Google/Alphabet already have well established teams in the areas of mapping & autonomous driving so you can't just go ahead and start your own multi-engineer effort.

[malandrew]

I believe it's both actually. With the exception of maybe a few small corners, Google no longer has the reputation of a place where you have autonomy.