BHP and Rio Tinto have begun testing Caterpillar electric dump trucks in Pilbara

Australia’s first Cat 793 XE Early Learner battery-powered electric mining trucks have arrived at the Jimblebar iron ore mine in the Pilbara region (Western Australia), marking the start of large-scale trials of zero-emission heavy mining equipment. This was reported in a press release by BHP.

The project is being implemented in a unique industry collaboration between BHP, Rio Tinto, and Caterpillar and aims to test the viability of electric traction as an alternative to diesel fuel in large iron ore mines.

After the safe commissioning phase is complete, the machines will begin operating in real production conditions. As part of the tests, the companies will evaluate not only the technical characteristics of the dump trucks, but also the readiness of the associated infrastructure: charging systems, energy management, power supply stability, and component supply logistics. The data obtained will form the basis for the design of future mines with low greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the companies’ estimates, decarbonization of mining operations in Pilbara is only possible with technological breakthroughs and accelerated investment in research and development. That is why BHP and Rio Tinto are working with Caterpillar, with the support of WesTrac, to prepare their fleets for a large-scale transformation as quickly as possible.

Based on the results of joint testing, each company will separately decide on the transition to extended testing and commercial implementation of the technology. The project is part of BHP and Rio Tinto’s long-term strategy to achieve zero operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, making it one of the key steps towards the green transformation of the mining industry.

As a reminder, BHP Group increased its iron ore production by 1% year-on-year – to 263 million tonnes in the 2024/2025 financial year (ended June 30). Production forecast for the 2025/2026 financial year is estimated at 258-269 million tonnes.

Rio Tinto reduced ore production at its Pilbara operations by 1% y/y – to 328 million tons in 2024. In 2025, the company expects to ship 323-338 million tons of raw materials.