Kodiak AI Partners with Verizon Business to Transform Trucking with Autonomous Technology
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Dec. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kodiak AI (NASDAQ: KDK), a foremost provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered autonomous vehicle technology, has announced a strategic partnership with Verizon Business. This collaboration aims to enhance Kodiak’s driverless trucking solutions through advanced connectivity and Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities offered by Verizon.
Innovative Solutions for Autonomous Trucking
Kodiak AI delivers a 24/7 autonomous driver-as-a-service model using its advanced virtual driver technology designed for long-haul, industrial, and defense trucking applications. Verizon's 5G telematics and ThingSpace IoT management solutions play a crucial role in enabling Kodiak's operational model and effectively managing the substantial amounts of data produced by its driverless vehicles.
- Assisted Autonomy: Incorporates remote human assistance in defined low-speed scenarios.
- Centralized Fleet Management: Facilitated via Verizon's ThingSpace platform for real-time data monitoring.
- Over-the-Air Updates: Ensures seamless software updates and maintenance of fleet operations.
A Boost to Operational Efficiency
The collaboration leverages Verizon's 5G and LTE networks to provide low-latency communication, crucial for the effective functioning of Kodiak's driverless trucks. This integration allows for mission-critical data exchange between vehicles and command centers over vast distances, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.
"Our autonomous driver-as-a-service business model requires highly reliable, low-latency communications for a number of different data transport and management needs," stated Don Burnette, Founder and CEO of Kodiak AI. "Verizon’s cellular and IoT capabilities provide the backbone that helps Kodiak safely scale its business and deliver for our customers.”
Verizon's Role in Autonomous Mobility
Verizon Business is committed to pioneering advancements in connected vehicle operations. Daniel Lawson, Senior Vice President of Global Solutions at Verizon Business, remarked: "Kodiak’s cutting-edge approach to logistics showcases the vast potential of the future of transportation powered by AI and connectivity.”
- Ultra-Reliable Connectivity: Custom 5G and LTE data plans tailored to the high data demands of autonomous vehicles.
- Enhanced Safety: Facilitated human oversight through Assisted Autonomy, improving operational safety.
- Data Management: Efficient management of fleet operations through Verizon's centralized IoT solutions.
Kodiak AI's Vision for the Future
Kodiak AI envisions becoming the leading entity in autonomous ground transportation. The company’s innovative Kodiak Driver, an AI-powered virtual driver, is already in operational use for commercial services as of 2024, making it a pioneer in deploying customer-owned driverless trucks.
This groundbreaking partnership with Verizon Business is set to enhance Kodiak’s capability to provide reliable and efficient driverless solutions, including constant hauling for various sectors. For more information about this partnership and its implications for the future of trucking, view the accompanying video.
About Kodiak AI
Kodiak AI, Inc. (NASDAQ: KDK) was established in 2018 and specializes in AI-driven autonomous vehicle technology aimed at addressing critical transportation challenges. Kodiak’s innovative solutions aim to tackle unprecedented supply chain demands safely and efficiently.
About Verizon Communications Inc.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ) is a global leader in delivering mobility, reliable network connectivity, and security solutions, generating revenues of $134 billion in 2023. Verizon remains dedicated to innovation, meeting its customers' evolving needs.