Kodiak AI begins autonomous truck pilot in California with DTL Transport

Kodiak AI, Inc. (NASDAQ: KDK) has begun hauling perishable freight in California under a heavy-duty autonomous vehicle testing permit issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), according to a company press release.

The pilot, which started Sept. 22, involves Kodiak's autonomous trucks transporting produce between Fresno and a Los Angeles distribution center for DTL Transport Inc., a Fresno-based trucking company. The route covers approximately 225 miles along California State Route 99 and Interstate 5. A human safety driver remains behind the wheel during this phase of testing.

Kodiak received its DMV permit on Aug. 13, following the state's approval of new regulations on April 28 that allow heavy-duty autonomous vehicles to be tested on California public roads for the first time. The DMV's permitting structure progresses in phases, from driver-in testing to driver-out testing and, ultimately, to driver-out deployment.

"California's comprehensive autonomous vehicle regulations are a major unlock for freight innovation in our home state," said Don Burnette, founder and CEO of Kodiak. "We look forward to demonstrating the benefits of this transformative technology with DTL Transport and the impact it can have on grocery distribution."

DTL Transport, which operates a fleet of more than 100 trucks serving major grocery chains and produce customers, said it is exploring how autonomous technology can supplement its existing operations.

"In a constantly evolving freight market, DTL is always looking for ways to leverage new innovations that drive efficiency and value in our operations," said Lucky Dosanjh, president and CEO of DTL Transport.

The two companies said the pilot is intended to provide data on transit times, shipping costs, and produce shelf life under autonomous operations. Kodiak said results may inform further opportunities in California and other states.

Kodiak has separately stated plans to launch driverless operations on public highways in Texas by the end of 2026.

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