Electric Trucks Roll Into Mongolia's Mines
In Mongolia, a groundbreaking trial is underway at the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine. A fleet of electric haul trucks is making its debut, equipped with a unique battery-swapping system. This marks the first time such trucks are being used in surface mining operations.
A Collaborative Effort
The project is a joint initiative between Rio Tinto and China's State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) Qiyuan. Together, they've deployed:
- Eight massive trucks, each weighing 91 tonnes
- 13 batteries
- A battery swapping station
- A static charger
- All necessary infrastructure
How It Works
The battery-swapping technology is designed for efficiency:
- Batteries can be swapped in under seven minutes
- Reduces downtime
- Enhances operational efficiency
- Lowers emissions
The trucks will be used for tasks like tailings dam construction and topsoil transportation, providing Rio Tinto with valuable insights into operating and maintaining a battery-electric truck and swap charging system.
Industry Impact
Ben Woffenden, Rio Tinto's General Manager of Global Equipment and Diesel Transition, emphasized the importance of this trial:
"Partnerships like this are crucial for advancing low-emission haulage alternatives. By working with companies like SPIC Qiyuan and Tonly, we can quickly identify and adopt cost-effective innovations that support operational excellence and decarbonisation goals."
Mr. Guo Peng, General Manager of Qiyuan Green Power, also shared his perspective:
"We are proud to partner with Rio Tinto. Battery-swap solutions have great potential in reducing emissions and enhancing operational efficiency. This collaboration aims to explore broader prospects for the mining industry's low-carbon transition."
Future Prospects
The trial will run through the end of 2026. The data collected will help Rio Tinto assess opportunities for wider adoption of this low-emission technology. With a global fleet of 700 haul trucks, including about 100 small or medium class vehicles, the potential for scaling up is significant.
