Komatsu bets big on AI with Applied Intuition mining deal

[Ben Graham]

Mining equipment maker Komatsu (TYO: 6301) and electric vehicles software developer Applied Intuition are joining forces in a multi-year strategic partnership to fast-track the rollout of autonomous mining vehicles.

The deal marks the most significant technology investment in Komatsu’s 104-year history, the company said.

Komatsu will integrate Applied Intuition’s Vehicle OS into its fleet to power advanced onboard systems, including collision avoidance and autonomous haulage. The Japanese equipment giant will also use Applied Intuition’s AI-driven tools to boost energy efficiency, safety, and productivity.

“This partnership will unlock productivity in some of the world’s harshest operating environments while keeping workers safe,” said Qasar Younis, co-founder and CEO of Applied Intuition. He described the mining sector as facing “a perfect storm” of safety risks, labour shortages, decarbonization pressures, and rising demand for critical minerals.

Peter Salditt, president of Komatsu’s Mining Business Division, called the deal a “step-change” in the company’s ability to deliver autonomous solutions. “Together with Applied Intuition, we’re combining mining expertise with cutting-edge autonomous software capabilities to accelerate the deployment of intelligent machines,” he said.

Pressure to modernize

The partnership arrives as the global mining sector faces mounting pressure to modernize. By 2027, the market is expected to reach $2.78 trillion, yet most mining trucks remain manually operated. Haulage and machinery remain the leading causes of mining fatalities, according to the US Mine Safety and Health Administration. 

At the same time, McKinsey estimates mining and metals contribute 4% to 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions, largely from diesel-powered vehicles.

The Komatsu–Applied Intuition partnership positions intelligent, AI-driven vehicles at the centre of the sector’s next chapter.