BHP, Rio Tinto and Caterpillar launch battery-electric dump truck trial in Support of Mining Decarbonization

BHP, Rio Tinto and Caterpillar have announced that they have begun the industry's first trials of two Cat® 793 XE Early Learner battery-electric dump trucks at BHP Jimblebar iron ore mine in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

The tests are conducted after three months of on-site testing and are intended to support efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from large-scale mining operations.

The trucks have been tested in the Pilbara

lang="EN-US">After completing safety checks and controlled testing at Caterpillar's Tucson proving ground in the United States, the battery dump trucks were delivered to Jimblebar late last year for operational testing in the Pilbara.

According to the companies, the Jimblebar mine currently houses two of the seven Caterpillar Early Learner battery electric vehicles. Dump trucks are being tested all over the world.

The tests are focused on charging technologies and systems

During the demonstration, data is collected to assess the technical readiness of trucks, infrastructure requirements, and commercial viability. Testing also includes evaluation of powerful static and dynamic charging systems. The first tests included more than 100 hours of operation and more than 200 test laps, which provided data on safety, technological characteristics and maintenance requirements.

The next stage of testing will evaluate a dynamic charging system designed to recharge trucks while they are moving. According to the companies, the goal is to increase operational efficiency while promoting the introduction of battery-powered electrical equipment in large-scale mining operations.