Kodiak Robotics, a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, has announced a significant partnership with Vay, a pioneer in remote-driving solutions. This collaboration will see Vay's innovative remote-driving technology integrated into Kodiak's self-driving trucks, specifically to support its "Assisted Autonomy" system. The goal is to provide human operators with the ability to remotely control vehicles in certain low-speed scenarios, such as interpreting law enforcement signals, launching and landing trucks at customer facilities, and navigating intricate industrial settings. This hybrid approach combines the precision of autonomous systems with the adaptability of human decision-making.
Vay's remote-driving technology is built around specialized Remote Driving Stations. These stations are equipped with automotive-grade steering wheels, pedals, and other vehicle controls, providing an immersive experience for remote drivers. Real-time visual feeds from multiple on-vehicle cameras and audio input through headphones allow operators to perceive the vehicle's surroundings comprehensively. The system operates via Vay's proprietary "drive-by-wire" technology, which transmits electrical signals through redundant cellular networks to control vehicle functions.
Safety is a core principle in Vay's design, with multiple redundancies ensuring robust operation. The system incorporates safety controllers both in the remote station and the vehicle itself, developed in accordance with Functional Safety (ISO 26262) and Cybersecurity (ISO 21434) standards. In the event of connection issues or emergencies, vehicles are programmed to automatically enter a safe state by coming to a controlled stop. This sophisticated blend of human expertise and technical safeguards allows for remote driving services at speeds up to 26 mph, utilizing a cost-effective sensor suite of cameras and radar, rather than relying solely on expensive LiDAR systems.
This integration builds upon Kodiak's recent achievements in autonomous trucking. In December 2024, Kodiak Robotics marked a significant milestone by delivering the world's first customer-owned driverless trucks to Atlas Energy Solutions. These autonomous "RoboTrucks," featuring Kodiak's sixth-generation platform and proprietary SensorPods™, began commercial operations on December 18 in West Texas's Permian Basin. They are tasked with transporting proppant (frac sand) across challenging terrain, making Kodiak the first company to commercialize autonomous trucking. This deployment addresses the Permian Basin's unique challenges, including rugged terrain, extreme heat, dust storms, and a high accident rate. The trucks operate on private lease roads at 10-20 mph, traversing a 21-mile route. To support these operations, Kodiak established an 18,000-square-foot facility in Odessa, Texas, which is set to expand its team. Atlas Energy Solutions plans to significantly scale its RoboTruck deployment throughout 2025, recognizing the technology's potential to enhance safety and reduce costs.
The "Assisted Autonomy" technology, powered by Vay's remote capabilities, extends beyond commercial trucking. Kodiak has applied similar principles to military vehicles through its partnership with Textron Systems. Their RIPSAW M3 vehicle incorporates the same approach, allowing soldiers to remotely control vehicles when necessary while maintaining autonomous safety protocols. This versatility demonstrates Kodiak's ability to adapt its technology stack across diverse industries, from commercial freight to defense, all while emphasizing the safety benefits of human-in-the-loop assistance. This partnership further solidifies the path towards a safer and more efficient future for autonomous ground transportation.
