Brazilian mining company Vale is collaborating with Caterpillar to introduce a massive 240-ton battery-electric haul truck, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions at its mines by 2030.
Under the agreement, Caterpillar and Vale will conduct tests on severe-duty battery electric mining trucks, including the 793 BEV, as well as V2G/V2x energy transfer systems and alcohol-powered trucks. These tests will help Vale in making informed decisions regarding equipment choices as it strives to reduce direct and indirect carbon emissions by 33% by 2030 and eliminate 100% of its net emissions by 2050.
Vale’s energy and decarbonization director, Ludmila Nascimento, highlighted the company’s approach to decarbonization: “We are developing a portfolio of options to decarbonize Vale’s operations, including electrification and the use of alternative fuels in the mines. The most viable solutions will be adopted.”
The company sees potential in ethanol as a fuel option due to its widespread use in Brazil. Vale plans to test the 240-ton Cat 793 battery-electric haul truck in Minas Gerais and evaluate energy transfer solutions at its operations in Pará over the next two to three years. Additionally, Caterpillar and Vale will conduct a joint study on the feasibility of a dual-fuel (ethanol/diesel) solution for existing ICE-powered assets.
Vale, known as the world’s largest producer of iron ore and nickel, has committed to investing between $4 billion to $6 billion to meet its 2030 emission reduction goal.
The Cat 793 haul truck, introduced in 2022, demonstrated impressive performance during tests, including a top speed of over 37 mph (60 km/h) when fully loaded and the ability to climb a 10% grade for a full kilometer at 7.5 mph. The truck also showcased regenerative braking, which allows it to recover energy while descending.
