Hitachi's Electric Dump Truck Undergoes Testing in Zambia
Hitachi Construction Machinery, a subsidiary of the Japanese conglomerate Hitachi, has been working with technology giant ABB to develop a battery-powered electric dump truck. The project, which started in June 2021, aims to reduce emissions in the mining industry. This endeavor involves a large-scale pilot project testing a prototype electric dump truck at the Kansanshi copper-gold mine in Zambia.
The Prototype Electric Dump Truck
The prototype is based on the Hitachi EH4000 AC-3, a 14-meter long dump truck with 74cm tires. It features a 2,500 horsepower Cummins engine and a 221-ton payload capacity. The truck, which underwent preliminary testing in January 2023, is currently undergoing further testing in Zambia.
A Partnership for Sustainable Mining
First Quantum Minerals, a mining company, has joined forces with Hitachi in this project, allowing the testing of the electric dump truck at their Kansanshi mine. The mine already utilizes Hitachi’s diesel-electric dump trucks, which can switch to full-electric mode using overhead cables.
Zero Emissions and a Sustainable Future
The fully electric version of the dump truck eliminates diesel emissions, a significant step towards sustainability, especially in Zambia, where renewable energy sources provide approximately 92% of the nation's energy needs.
Dynamic Charging for Enhanced Efficiency
The electric dump truck incorporates a dynamic charging system, allowing for continuous operation without stopping for charging. This eliminates the need for large on-board batteries, which reduces production costs and maximizes operational efficiency.
A Promising Solution for a Cleaner Future
“This system is an economically viable and practical solution to reduce emissions in the mining industry in the coming years,†said John Gregory, an advisor at First Quantum Minerals.
Summary
Hitachi's electric dump truck is a significant milestone in the quest for a cleaner mining industry. The prototype, currently undergoing testing in Zambia, utilizes a dynamic charging system that eliminates the need for large batteries, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution. This innovative approach to mining equipment demonstrates the potential for a future with zero emissions in the mining sector. The project's success could set a precedent for other mining companies seeking to reduce their environmental footprint.