In a landmark move for the Australian resources sector, mining giants BHP and Rio Tinto have commenced a pivotal joint trial of battery-electric haul trucks, aiming to slash diesel use and advance their decarbonisation missions.
The Pilbara Trial Begins
The first two Caterpillar battery-electric haul trucks have arrived at BHP's Jimblebar iron ore mine in Western Australia's Pilbara region. This on-site testing phase, which started in early December 2025, will put the lower-emissions vehicles through their paces in one of the world's harshest mining environments.
The trial represents a potentially viable pathway for the miners to reduce a significant portion of their operational emissions, with both companies committed to achieving net-zero by 2050. Replacing diesel-powered fleets with electric alternatives is a central challenge in this goal.
Understanding the Challenges of Electrification
BHP's WA Iron Ore President, Tim Day, emphasised that the trial is about learning. The company needs to understand the full requirements of the technology, which extends far beyond the trucks themselves.
"This is going to take time to get right, which is why trials like this one with Rio Tinto and Caterpillar are so critical," Mr Day stated. He highlighted that the study will examine generation and charging infrastructure, power management systems, and the supply chains needed to support a large-scale electric fleet.
The productivity challenge is substantial. Electric truck batteries can require hours to charge, a potential hurdle for operations that rely on moving massive tonnes of iron ore with maximum efficiency around the clock.
A Shared Industry Mission
The scale of the challenge necessitates collaboration. Rio Tinto estimates that approximately 14% of its Scope 1 and 2 emissions stem from fossil diesel, with haul trucks alone accounting for 45% of that figure.
Following this initial joint effort, each company will pursue scaled trials within their own operations. However, the spirit of cooperation remains key. Rio Tinto Iron Ore Pilbara Mines Managing Director, Andrew Wilson, underscored this point, stating, "No single company can achieve zero emissions haulage on its own. It takes the whole industry working together."
The success of this Pilbara trial could set a new standard for heavy industry globally, proving whether battery-electric technology can withstand the demands of a 24/7 mining operation and pave the way for a cleaner future.
