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Caterpillar Demonstrates Its Expanding Sustainability Portfolio With New Electric Mining Vehicle

January 3, 2024

Caterpillar unveils a battery electric prototype specifically designed for underground mining operations.
Newmont and Caterpillar shake hands to realize a transformative vision for the mining industry.
When paired with the commercially available R1700 XE loader, the new electric mining vehicle completes Caterpillar’s first fully electric underground load and haul solution.

The construction and mining equipment manufacturer giant, Catterpillar Inc., continues to make strides in its commitment to sustainable mining. Their latest innovation is a new electric mining vehicle prototype designed for underground operations. The innovative demonstration, witnessed by Newmont and other industry pioneers, took place at Caterpillar’s testing ground in Tasmania, Australia. The development comes shortly after the November 2022 release of the 793 battery electric prototype for surface mining.

Partnering for Zero Emissions

Caterpillar Inc., in a noteworthy alliance with Newmont Corporation, has developed its first battery electric prototype for underground mining trucks. This pioneering endeavor has been guided by direct input and support from the customers, thus ensuring the prototype aligns with the practical needs of the industry. The collaboration between Caterpillar and Newmont extends beyond this prototype as they strive to realize a transformative vision for the mining industry. They aim to establish a fully connected and automated end-to-end mining system, one that emits zero carbon.

Denise Johnson, Caterpillar’s Resource Industries group president, said, “This is a milestone for the entire Caterpillar team as we work closer than ever with Newmont to provide more sustainable choices for the underground mining industry.”

Fully Electric Mining Operations

The new electric mining vehicle, a battery-electric truck, is a groundbreaking piece of machinery. When working alongside the R1700 XE electric loader, the machines become Caterpillar’s first fully electric underground load and haul solution.

As part of its ongoing commitment to safety and productivity, Caterpillar showcased its expanding autonomy capabilities. These technological advancements target safety challenges common in underground mining operations. For example, avoiding collisions when navigating heavy machinery through confined, poorly lit spaces. By leveraging autonomous trucks, the risk posed to operators working in potentially hazardous or remote locations can be mitigated, enhancing site safety. Beyond safety enhancements, these advanced features also boost productivity. They provide mine site coordinators with increased visibility, facilitating more consistent operations for both manned and autonomous machines.