This Robot Truck Developer Goes Offroad In Search Of Profitability

| Source: Forbes | Posted 09/14/2024

Kodiak Robotics, a Silicon Valley startup developing driverless big rigs to carry freight on the highway, is getting its tech into broader commercial operation by going offroad – where signs, traffic signals, other vehicles, public agencies and regulations aren’t a top concern. It’s got a first-of-its-kind deal to start running robot trucks for Atlas Energy between remote West Texas sand mines and oil and gas fields on private roads that founder and CEO Don Burnette says is a game-changer for his company.

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Kodiak Robotics, a Silicon Valley startup focused on developing driverless big rigs for freight transport, is branching out into offroad operations, away from the complexities of highways. The company has secured a groundbreaking deal with Atlas Energy to deploy autonomous trucks in West Texas, carrying sand between remote locations in the oil-rich Permian Basin on private roads. This move is seen as a significant milestone for Kodiak as it leverages its autonomous technology to address a real need in an industry facing challenges in hiring drivers.

By simplifying the trucking operation through slower speeds and controlled environments, Kodiak aims to overcome the challenges of operating heavy-duty vehicles in autonomous mode, laying the groundwork for profitability. While the self-driving industry has faced setbacks, recent developments, including Waymo's expansion of robotaxi services and Gatik's deployment of autonomous trucks for fixed-route deliveries, indicate a changing landscape. Companies like Kodiak continue to innovate, with plans for highway applications and government-funded projects, highlighting the potential for autonomous technology to address specific industry needs effectively.

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Source Link: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2024/09/12/this-robot-truck-developer-goes-offroad-in-search-of-profitability-texas-kodiak-waymo/?ss=energy

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This Robot Truck Developer Goes Offroad In Search Of Profitability

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