Komatsu partners with Applied Intuition, bets on autonomous mining growth

Japan’s Komatsu Ltd. and technology startup Applied Intuition Inc. have teamed up to accelerate the development of autonomous mining vehicles, according to a joint statement from the companies.

The “multi-year” partnership represents the “most significant technology investment in Komatsu’s history,” the statement said, without providing any monetary details. The deal gives the company access to Applied Intuition’s vehicle operating system, along with AI-powered tools.

Komatsu, the world’s second-biggest supplier of mining equipment, already deploys autonomous trucks in some markets, and is facing tougher competition from peers such as Caterpillar Inc. Applied Intuition’s technology will help improve energy efficiency and productivity, the Japanese company said.

For Applied Intuition, the pact extends its reach beyond automotive businesses and defense. Founded in 2017, the California-based company previously announced a partnership with OpenAI, was valued at $15 billion in June.