Hitachi introduced its 384-ton battery-powered dump truck at a mine in Zambia. The vehicle operates with zero emissions, charges via trolley lines, and is aimed for commercialization in 2027.
Hitachi Construction Machinery unveiled its 384-ton fully battery-powered dump truck with a comprehensive demonstration at the Kansanshi Copper Mine in Zambia. During the event, approximately 30 mining customers from different parts of the world had the opportunity to observe the performance of the next-generation vehicle firsthand.
Capable of Continuous Operation
One of the most striking aspects of the demonstration was the truck's ability to simultaneously operate and charge via overhead catenary lines (trolley lines). This design allows the vehicle to receive power replenishment without interrupting operational continuity, thus preventing efficiency loss.
The engineering design of the system maintained the vehicle's load capacity, center of gravity, and maneuverability, without significant architectural changes compared to traditional diesel systems. This ensured the truck could be integrated into existing mining operations.
One of the most critical outcomes of the field tests was the achievement of "zero CO₂ emissions" during operation, thanks to Zambia's energy infrastructure, which provides 92% hydroelectric power.
Throughout the testing period, the vehicle traveled over 4,000 kilometers and transported more than 30,000 tons of material. Furthermore, an increase in the truck's acceleration performance and a significant reduction in noise levels during operation were observed.
Hitachi Construction Machinery officials stated that the real-time data obtained confirmed the system's sustainable applicability in large-scale mining operations.
Hiroshi Kanezawa, a senior executive at the company, emphasized the importance of the collaboration with First Quantum within the project, stating that their new brand vision is also built upon such innovative solutions. Kanezawa noted that the "S" in the "LANDCROS" brand, planned for launch in 2027, represents a "solution" approach, and that systems integrating various energy sources will play a critical role in future mining.
The company's roadmap aims for the commercialization of this technology in fiscal year 2027.
0 Comments: