Japan-based deep-tech startup TIER IV, as well as Komatsu and Earthbrain have partnered to develop technologies for automating construction equipment.

The partnership will focus on the autonomous operation of Komatsu’s articulated and rigid dump trucks.

The initiative aims for practical implementation by fiscal year 2027 (FY27).

Furthermore, the partnership leverages TIER IV's expertise in open-source software for autonomous driving, particularly its Autoware platform, which is already used in the autonomous vehicle sector.

Komatsu and its subsidiary, Earthbrain, are advancing automation and remote fleet technologies to facilitate uncrewed operations at construction sites.

The collaboration combines TIER IV’s autonomous driving capabilities with Komatsu’s engineering strengths and Earthbrain’s digital construction process management.

The three companies plan to create an autonomous system alongside a fleet management system tailored for construction equipment.

TIER IV will co-develop the autonomous system with Komatsu and assist in its integration and deployment at various job sites while Earthbrain will focus on the fleet management system's development.

Initially, Komatsu will implement this technology in its HM400 articulated dump truck, which has a maximum payload of 40 tons (t), and the HD785 rigid dump truck, with a maximum payload of 93.9t.

The partners also have plans to extend this technology to other models in the future, targeting a variety of industrial sites, including steel mills and plants, with an eye towards global deployment.

The collaboration seeks to mitigate labour shortages in civil engineering and quarry operations across Japan by enabling autonomous dump truck operations, thereby reducing the need for manual labour.

The initiative also aims to improve safety and lessen environmental impacts by optimising fuel consumption and supporting unmanned operations.