Hitachi Construction Machinery, Pronto partner on mine automation

Tokyo-based Hitachi Construction Machinery and San Francisco-based Pronto AI have signed a memorandum of understanding to advance open automation solutions for mining operations.

The partnership focuses on deployable systems across mixed fleets, allowing mine operators to use existing equipment and technologies from multiple manufacturers rather than relying on a single-vendor platform, according to a July 16 release from Hitachi.

Mining companies are seeking scalable technologies that can improve productivity and safety, address labor shortages and adapt to changing operating conditions, according to the release. The partnership will combine the manufacturer’s mining equipment expertise and global customer base with Pronto’s autonomous haulage technology.

Pronto provides original equipment manufacturer-agnostic autonomous haulage systems that can be retrofitted onto existing haul trucks. Its portfolio works for operations ranging from regional quarries to ultra-class, deep-pit mines.

The collaboration gives customers greater flexibility when adopting automation solutions, Hitachi Construction Machinery President and Executive Officer Masafumi Senzaki said in the release. Hitachi Construction Machinery plans to transition to the Landcros brand in April 2027.

Additionally, the partnership could provide mine operators with a practical and affordable path to autonomy using fleets they already own, Pronto CEO and co-founder Anthony Levandowski said in the release. Pronto is part of Atoms Mining, a division of Atoms.

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