Editor’s Note: This is the first part of a two-story series exploring Kodiak AI’s recent autonomy announcements.
Dive Brief:
- Kodiak AI is partnering with Verizon to enhance the data capabilities of its autonomous trucks, the driverless technology company announced on Dec. 18.
- Through the agreement, Verizon’s high-speed wireless data transfer technology provides stable communications with Kodiak’s driverless vehicles over long distances in remote environments, per the release.
- The collaboration advances Kodiak’s plan to scale operations, utilizing Verizon’s 5G and LTE networks to provide over-the-air software updates, remote fleet management and skilled assistance for the company’s long-haul and industrial operations.
Dive Insight:
Reliable communications between a number of data points and management is a requirement of Kodiak’s autonomous driver business model, Don Burnette, founder and CEO of Kodiak AI, said in the release.
“This is physical AI at work to enable up to 24/7 driverless operations, and Verizon’s cellular and IoT capabilities provide the backbone that helps Kodiak safely scale its business and deliver for our customers,” he said. The company aims to fully deploy its autonomous technology in the long-haul trucking segment by the end of 2026.
The connectivity and IoT data capabilities will also boost safety and efficiency by enabling remote operators to quickly review camera feeds and sensor data to guide autonomous trucks through assorted scenarios, Kodiak said.
The partnership also provides Verizon a platform to showcase how its technology is advancing future transportation powered by AI and connectivity, Daniel Lawson, SVP of global solutions for Verizon Business, said.
“Our IoT solutions, 5G network, and data platforms are now underpinning connected-vehicle operations of every size and scale,” Lawson said. “And now with AI catalyzing new enthusiasm for autonomous mobility, reliable connectivity and data services have never been more important.”
