First Mode, a US-based company, has partnered with ABB to procure 80 battery systems capable of storing a total of 2.6 MWh. These cutting-edge battery systems will be installed in a fleet of zero-emission dump trucks. Equipped with Bordline ESS lithium-ion systems, the converted dump trucks will utilize a combination of fuel cell and battery propulsion.
The primary purpose of these batteries is twofold. Firstly, they will enhance the trucks’ power output while ascending uphill terrains. Secondly, they will capture and store recuperation energy during downhill drives. A press release from ABB states that this order comes on the heels of successful tests conducted with a prototype dump truck in a South African platinum mine. The prototype not only proved its capabilities but also demonstrated that a combined fuel cell-battery drive is a viable alternative to traditional diesel-powered heavy-duty vehicles.
The creation of this remarkable vehicle involved collaboration between multiple companies. Unveiled in May 2022, it was the result of a joint effort between First Mode, Anglo American (a mining and raw materials company), Ballard (a fuel cell specialist), and Engie (an energy company). In March 2023, Anglo American made the decision to convert additional dump trucks and initially placed an order for fuel cells from Ballard Power Systems. Now, with First Mode’s partnership, ABB is entrusted with providing the next crucial drive component.
Krunal Desai, the director of electrical engineering at First Mode, acknowledges the unique challenges posed by the mining environment. He explains, “The mining environment presents a unique combination of high-power charge and discharge, continuous operation, and significant thermal management challenges that are not found in many other applications.” Desai further adds, “ABB’s ESS technology is an ideal fit for this application, with excellent power performance and inherent safety.”
Edgar Keller, the head of ABB’s Traction division, highlights the advantage of their solutions, which encompass not only batteries but also drives and motors for heavy industry mobility. He emphasizes their high degree of customization and ease of integration. Keller states, “Together with First Mode, we are able to demonstrate the technology in the extremely demanding application of zero-emission mining haul trucks.”
