The mining sector is poised for a seismic shift as Rio Tinto embarks on an ambitious project at its Oyu Tolgoi operation in Mongolia, showcasing the use of battery electric haul trucks. This initiative, in collaboration with the State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) and truck manufacturer Tonly, is set to revolutionize how mining operations approach sustainability and efficiency. With eight 91-tonne payload trucks, 13 robust 800kWh batteries, and a cutting-edge robotic battery swap and charging station, this project represents a significant leap forward in the electrification of mining equipment.
The trucks will primarily be utilized for tailings dam rehabilitation and topsoil movement, tasks that are crucial for sustainable mining practices. Oyu Tolgoi personnel will operate and maintain these trucks, ensuring that the local workforce is integral to the project’s success. Each battery is designed to last up to eight hours, depending on the workload, and the swift seven-minute battery swap process minimizes downtime, allowing for continuous operation. This innovative approach to battery management could set a new standard in the industry, where operational efficiency often hinges on equipment availability.
Rio Tinto’s commitment to achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2050 is not merely a corporate checkbox; it reflects a broader industry trend toward sustainability. By leveraging Chinese innovation and technology, Rio Tinto is not just aiming to reduce its carbon footprint but also to demonstrate the viability of electric haulage in mining. Jonathon McCarthy, Rio’s chief decarbonization officer, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “By partnering with the State Power Investment Corporation, we will be demonstrating the latest technology and innovation available in China and assessing its potential to help decarbonize our operations quickly and cost-effectively.”
This project at Oyu Tolgoi is particularly noteworthy given the mine’s status as one of the largest known copper and gold deposits globally, with annual production figures that are nothing to scoff at—168,000 tonnes of copper and 177,000 ounces of gold. The mine has already established itself as a modern, safe, and sustainable operation since open-pit mining began in 2011. The introduction of electric haul trucks could further enhance its reputation, aligning with the strategic commitment to sustainable growth articulated by Oyu Tolgoi CEO Deirdre Lingenfelder.
Looking ahead, this project may serve as a blueprint for other mining operations worldwide. The flexibility and reduced downtime offered by battery swap technology could compel other companies to rethink their own electrification strategies. As Rio Tinto prepares for the arrival of the first truck later this year, the remaining seven trucks and the associated infrastructure are expected to be operational by mid-2025. This timeline not only underscores the urgency of the transition to electric haulage but also highlights the potential for rapid implementation of innovative technologies in the sector.
With the industry facing increasing pressure from stakeholders to adopt greener practices, Rio Tinto’s initiative at Oyu Tolgoi could be a game-changer. As other mining companies observe the outcomes of this project, it may catalyze a broader shift towards electrification and sustainability, ultimately reshaping the future landscape of the mining industry.
