Driverless Trucks Scale Up: 100 Trucks by 2027

Atlas Energy Solutions is expanding its fleet of Kodiak-powered driverless trucks across Texas and New Mexico. The current fleet of 28 trucks, which operates without anyone in the cab, hauls sand to oil and gas well sites. This operation is set to grow substantially, with plans to increase the fleet to 100 driverless trucks by mid-2027.

Key milestones include the commencement of operations on public roads, which is targeted for early 2027, contingent upon meeting operational goals. This expansion represents a significant progression for autonomous trucking technology as it moves from private industrial roads toward public highways.

The driverless fleet has already demonstrated considerable capacity, carrying approximately 7,000 loads and over 450,000 tons of sand as of March 31, 2026. The companies have also experimented with a driverless truck capable of pulling three connected trailers, weighing over 135 tons when loaded.

Kodiak emphasizes that its trucks are designed to drive cautiously and follow normal driving etiquette, with safety drivers currently overseeing operations on highways. In extreme weather or hazardous conditions, the trucks are programmed to slow down and safely pull over, or remain parked if conditions are unsafe. Cybersecurity is also a major focus, with multiple layers of security implemented to protect the vehicles and systems.

While widespread adoption will take time, this expansion signals a rapid scaling of fully driverless trucking within demanding industrial environments. The transition to public roads will bring increased scrutiny, with a focus on how the technology handles unpredictable situations and ensures public trust through consistent performance and transparency.