Hitachi Construction Machinery Launches Trial of World's First Ultra-Large Full Battery Dump Truck at Mining Site
Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. has launched the world's first technological feasibility trial of an ultra-large, full battery rigid frame dump truck, developed by an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), at the Kansanshi copper and gold mine in Zambia, operated by First Quantum Minerals Ltd. This trial, which began in June 2024, aims to test the dump truck's basic operational performance, such as traveling, turning, and stopping, under real mining conditions. The trial also includes testing the battery charging and discharging cycles.
First Quantum, known for their expertise in trolley system operations, is providing the necessary infrastructure and facilities for this trial, including proven overhead dynamic charging solutions. The collaboration between Hitachi Construction Machinery and First Quantum is crucial for accelerating the development of this technology, making it a practical and commercially viable solution.
Zambia's energy landscape, where 92% of energy comes from renewable sources, offers an ideal environment for this trial. The success of this project could contribute to broader efforts to decarbonize the mining industry globally. The full battery dump truck, jointly developed with ABB Ltd., features a system that allows for continuous operation without the need for frequent charging stops, thanks to overhead line charging and regenerative braking.
This initiative is part of Hitachi Construction Machinery's broader strategy to reduce the environmental impact of mining and help their customers achieve zero emissions goals. The company has been working on this project since June 2021, and after completing the test machine in early 2024, the trial at First Quantum's mine is now underway.
