Japanese construction equipment maker Komatsu has partnered with Silicon Valley-based autonomy company Pronto to roll out a new AI-powered haulage solution aimed at automating quarry operations in North America.
The new system, called Komatsu Smart Quarry Autonomous, integrates Pronto’s autonomous driving technology into Komatsu’s quarry-sized trucks, enabling them to operate without human drivers. The platform, which can be retrofitted into existing equipment or built into new trucks, is designed to improve safety, reduce operational risk, and increase efficiency through continuous, 24/7 autonomous haulage.
“This collaboration with Pronto accelerates our vision of smart, automated quarry operations,” said Jason Anetsberger, Komatsu’s Senior Director for Customer Solutions.
The system is described as OEM-agnostic and capable of working with Komatsu’s Smart Quarry Site fleet management suite, which offers real-time data analysis and operational insights. Pronto’s AI platform uses robust sensor technology to allow trucks to navigate haul roads autonomously, even in harsh quarry environments.
By removing drivers from potentially hazardous work zones, the companies say the technology will enhance worker safety while enabling consistent cycle times and improved fuel economy.
“By combining Komatsu’s trusted hardware and vast support network with Pronto’s scalable, intelligent autonomous platform, we are fundamentally changing the game,” said Anthony Levandowski, CEO of Pronto.
The Smart Quarry Autonomous system will be made available through Komatsu’s existing dealer network, which the company says will ensure broad access across operations of all sizes. The collaboration builds on Komatsu’s decades of experience in autonomous mining and extends those capabilities into mid-scale quarry environments.