Rio Tinto has launched its first fleet of battery swap electric haul trucks at the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia.
The trial, set to take place throughout 2026, is Rio Tinto’s first use of the technology in surface mining operations and is said to be a “major step” towards developing cost-effective technology and helping reduce carbon emissions.
Collaborating with China’s State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) Qiyuan, Rio Tinto has delivered and installed a fleet of eight 91-tonne trucks with 13 batteries and related infrastructure such as static charger.
The technology allows for the battery of an electric truck to be replaced at a swap station in less than seven minutes, Rio Tinto said, and doesn’t require the need to charge the vehicle at a fixed facility – minimising downtime and improving equipment efficiency.
Trucks will be used by Oyu Tolgoi for tailings dam construction and topsoil transportation tasks, providing Rio Tinto with hands on experience operating and maintaining a complete battery electric truck and swap charging system.
“The launch of this trial with SPIC Qiyuan is an important milestone, harnessing China’s widely used and leading battery swap technology in a partnership that supports Rio Tinto’s drive to accelerate low-carbon innovation,” Rio Tinto general manager global equipment and diesel transition Ben Woffenden said.
“The rapid deployment and fast-tracked operational learnings have highlighted the importance of partnerships in advancing low-emission haulage alternatives for our business.”
The sentiment has been echoed by general manager of SPIC Qiyuan green power Guo Peng who described the agreement as a “milestone”.
“This partnership showcases the significant potential of our proven battery-swap solutions in helping global mining customers reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency.”
Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.