Komatsu's Smart Quarry Autonomous solution for haul trucks can be deployed without extensive infrastructure upgrades
Autonomous hauling systems can address labour shortages by reducing reliance on skilled operators
Komatsu Smart Quarry Autonomous, powered by Pronto, is a part of Komatsu North America's expanding technology offerings for quarry aggregate operations. The aim is to make work easier by digitally transforming quarry sites with its Smart Quarry suite of solutions, including Smart Quarry Site.
How Smart Quarry Autonomous simplifies site operations
Smart Quarry Autonomous is designed to be deployed quickly and economically without the need for extensive site infrastructure or a dedicated control centre. The solution can be installed as a retrofit on select Komatsu haul trucks enabling quarry operators to adopt autonomy in stages, matching the sensor stack to the specific complexity of their haul roads and environment.
The autonomous system utilizes artificial intelligence, onboard computing, and sensor-based perception technologies to navigate mapped haul routes with minimal setup. System configurations are determined based on site requirements and applicable commercial agreements.
Komatsu's dealers support Smart Quarry Autonomous through hardware installation, system deployment, training and ongoing service. Components are supplied through Komatsu's distribution network, helping ensure consistency, supportability and long-term service readiness.
Komatsu North America and Pronto, the Silicon Valley-based off-road autonomy pioneer, announced in August 2025 a commercial partnership focused on providing a practical and scalable path to autonomy for open-pit quarries and aggregate producers in North America.
"Quarry operations are under pressure to keep production moving despite ongoing labour challenges," said Michael Gidaspow, chief digital officer, Komatsu North America. "Autonomous haulage can help address ongoing workforce challenges by reducing reliance on skilled operators, helping to mitigate the impact of absenteeism and shift changes and enabling more predictable haul cycles across operating hours."
Komatsu's technology recognized at Next Level Awards
In addition to revolutionizing autonomy for open-pit mining, Komatsu was named as a finalist for the CONEXPO-CON/AGG Next Level Awards, which recognize equipment and technologies that demonstrate measurable potential to advance operations. The technology awards highlight solutions that apply emerging automation and digital capabilities to real-world job site challenges.
