Scania and Australia’s Fortescue Metals Group have entered into a partnership to develop and validate a fully integrated autonomous road train solution aimed at the global mining industry. The collaborative project will take place at Fortescue’s iron ore operations located in Christmas Creek, Queensland.
Leveraging Scania’s expertise in truck automation, the autonomous system will be integrated with Fortescue’s Fleet Management System (FMS). This integration aims to enhance fleet utilization and productivity while ensuring optimal fuel and energy consumption.
The autonomous solution will utilize Scania’s onboard automation hardware and technology, specifically designed for the Scania R770 prime mover platform, which will be coupled with three trailers weighing a total of 120 tonnes, allowing for a payload capacity of 240 tonnes.
Scania has begun accepting orders for its autonomous trucks, with deliveries expected to commence in late 2026.
Peter Hafmar, Head of Autonomous Solutions at Scania, stated, “This is a great opportunity for Scania to learn more about autonomy in demanding conditions with an innovative partner.”
Manfred Streit, Managing Director of Scania Australia, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, saying, “By utilizing Scania’s extensive knowledge in supplying trucks to the mining industry and our expertise in autonomous driving, the Road Train solution will reduce the overall mining footprint.”
Fortescue Metals Chief Executive Officer Dino Otranto commented, “Our deep expertise in autonomous haulage has enabled us to jointly develop a unique autonomous solution that unlocks high-grade, satellite deposits for us to mine economically. This project will help us maximize productivity with unique low-cost solutions in our mining value chain.”
