An experimental supply of battery packs for electric dump trucks has begun at the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia, initiated by Rio Tinto in collaboration with the China Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) Qiyuan.
This trial represents Rio Tinto's first experience in integrating electric dump trucks with replaceable batteries in open-pit mining operations. This step is crucial for developing cost-effective technologies and gaining the experience necessary to reduce emissions associated with mining transport, which is a significant source of the company's carbon footprint in categories 1 and 2.
In the past year, Rio Tinto and SPIC Qiyuan established a fleet of eight 91-ton Tonly trucks and 13 batteries (each with a capacity of 800 kWh), as well as created a battery replacement station, a stationary charger, and the necessary infrastructure.
These trucks will now be deployed at the Oyu Tolgoi mine for constructing a tailings storage facility and transporting topsoil, allowing Rio Tinto to gain practical experience in operating a fully electric dump truck and battery replacement system.
The battery replacement technology enables the battery of the electric mining dump truck to be swapped at the station in less than seven minutes, eliminating the need for charging at a stationary charging station. This significantly reduces downtime and increases equipment efficiency.
Ben Woffenden, Head of Global Equipment Development and Diesel Transition at Rio Tinto, emphasized: “The launch of this experiment with SPIC Qiyuan is an important milestone that opens doors for the use of advanced Chinese battery replacement technologies. This partnership supports our commitment to accelerate the adoption of low-carbon innovations. The rapid acquisition and implementation of new experiences highlight the importance of partnerships in advancing low-emission solutions for our business.”
“By collaborating with partners like SPIC Qiyuan and Tonly, Rio Tinto aims to quickly identify and implement cost-effective innovations that enhance operational efficiency and achieve decarbonization goals.”
Go Peng, Director of Qiyuan Green Power, noted: “We are proud to collaborate with Rio Tinto in conducting this significant testing of trucks with replaceable batteries at the Oyu Tolgoi mine. SPIC Qiyuan is actively developing innovative technologies in the field of green energy, and this partnership demonstrates the immense potential of our battery replacement solutions, helping clients in the mining industry worldwide reduce emissions and increase efficiency. We look forward to further collaboration with Rio Tinto to jointly explore the prospects of transitioning the mining industry to low-carbon technologies.”
Equipment testing will continue until the end of 2026, providing Rio Tinto the opportunity to identify pathways for broader implementation of this low-emission technology across the company. Rio Tinto's global fleet includes 700 dump trucks, of which about 100 are small and medium-sized (with a capacity of 100–200 tons), creating opportunities for the implementation of new battery replacement technologies.
source: MiddleAsianNews
