Hitachi Construction Machinery Africa recently reinforced its position as a leading provider of construction and mining equipment by hosting a “Battery, Truck & Electrification Showcase.”
The showcase, held last week at First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi Copper Mine in Zambia, featured a technical demonstration of its Full Battery Dump Truck. More than 30 mining customers from approximately 25 companies attended, observing the truck operating and charging under overhead trolley lines.
Hitachi reports that the Full Battery Dump Truck produced zero carbon dioxide emissions during its trial phase, while also delivering improved acceleration and reduced noise levels.
During the trial, the truck carried over 30,000 tons and travelled a distance exceeding 4,000 kilometres.
The technological feasibility trial was conducted in cooperation with First Quantum, a company with extensive experience in operating trolley dump trucks. The trial utilised existing trolley line infrastructure and technology developed by the company.
“We are delighted to have successfully completed the technological feasibility trial in partnership with First Quantum and to have showcased the results to many customers. The ‘S’ in ‘LANDCROS,’ our new company name and brand effective April 1, 2027, embodies our desire to propose innovative Solutions,” says Hiroshi Kanezawa, Hitachi Construction Machinery Executive Officer, Vice President of Mining Business Unit.
“The real-world operating data obtained from this technological feasibility trial demonstrates the Full Battery Dump Truck’s capability for continuous operation in actual mine sites, enabling us to propose optimal operational plans and trolley line designs. We will continue to refine this innovative technology and solutions with a view to commercial deployment in FY2027, contributing to sustainable mining operations by leveraging diverse power sources while achieving zero emissions and greater energy efficiency.”
Meanwhile, Gordon White, Director of Mining Operations and Technology for First Quantum Minerals, says that as the industry seeks productive, safe and profitable decarbonization, it is important that they deliver lower carbon intensity copper that will be essential for the global energy transition.
“Our extensive trolley line infrastructure and Zambia’s renewable energy provided an optimal environment for validating this groundbreaking technology. The success of the trial marks a significant step towards decarbonization in the mining industry, and we are confident that our collaboration with Hitachi Construction Machinery is indispensable for achieving sustainable mining operations in the future.”
