Cummins and Komatsu have taken a significant step towards decarbonising the mining sector by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on developing hybrid powertrains for surface haulage heavy mining equipment. This partnership, which also includes Wabtec, Komatsu’s drive system supplier, aims to advance optimised hybrid solutions for mining, potentially reshaping the industry’s approach to sustainability and operational efficiency.
The collaboration will see both companies integrate hybrid powertrains into their product roadmaps, focusing on large mining haul truck applications. This move is strategic, as it addresses the pressing need for miners to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining operational productivity. Hybrid solutions offer a tangible benefit: they can save fuel by capturing braking energy and improve productivity through accelerated cycle times. This dual advantage could make hybrid powertrains an attractive option for mining companies looking to balance decarbonisation goals with cost-effective operations.
Gbile Adewunmi, Cummins vice president of Industrial Markets, Power Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Komatsu once again to bring the latest advancements to the mining sector. We have a robust team of Cummins and former First Mode experts dedicated to hybrid development and optimisation, and now collaborating with Komatsu, we can bring miners the flexibility and confidence they need to decarbonise and improve total cost of operations.” This collaboration is bolstered by Cummins’ acquisition of First Mode assets in February 2025, which introduces critical capabilities and accelerates development efforts. Pilot units are expected to deploy later this year, marking a concrete step towards real-world application.
Dan Funcannon, senior vice president of Komatsu’s Surface Haulage Business Unit, underscored the importance of this collaboration in advancing practical decarbonisation solutions. He noted, “This collaboration with Cummins is an important step in advancing practical decarbonisation solutions. Together, we’re helping bridge current operational needs with future low-carbon goals to support our customers’ sustainability efforts.” Komatsu’s commitment to reducing environmental impact is evident in its target of achieving carbon neutrality from the use of its products and the production of its equipment by 2050.
Molly Puga, general manager of First Mode, highlighted the commercialisation of hybrid retrofit kits as a key first step. She stated, “Commercialising hybrid retrofit kits is a key first step. With the pace of development already underway, now accelerated by this collaborative partnership, we’re confident in delivering hybrid products at scale well in advance of 2030. The initial First Mode retrofit kit pilot will go into the market in the coming months, where we expect to see double-digit fuel savings in mining operations.” This optimism is backed by the expectation of double-digit fuel savings, which could significantly lower operational costs for mining companies.
The implications of this collaboration are far-reaching. By developing hybrid powertrains, Cummins and Komatsu are not only addressing immediate decarbonisation needs but also laying the groundwork for future innovations in mining equipment. The integration of hybrid technology could lead to a paradigm shift in how mining operations are conducted, potentially influencing other sectors to adopt similar sustainable practices.
Moreover, the involvement of Wabtec adds another layer of expertise to the collaboration, ensuring that the powertrain solutions are optimised for performance and reliability. This multi-faceted approach is likely to yield robust solutions that can withstand the demanding conditions of mining operations.
In conclusion, the partnership between Cummins, Komatsu, and Wabtec represents a significant stride towards a more sustainable mining industry. By focusing on hybrid powertrains, these companies are addressing both environmental and economic concerns, offering a viable path for miners to achieve their decarbonisation goals without compromising on productivity. As the collaboration progresses, it will be interesting to see how these innovations shape the future of mining and inspire similar initiatives across other heavy industries.