BHP has become the first customer to announce plans to trial Caterpillar's newly launched Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system on its battery-electric and diesel-electric mining trucks.

The trials will be conducted at BHP’s iron-ore and copper operations, including the CAT 793 fleet at Jimblebar, in Western Australia, and the CAT 798 fleet at the Escondida mine, in Chile.

Caterpillar introduced the Cat DET system earlier this week at MINExpo, in the US, highlighting its ability to transfer energy to large mining trucks while they are in operation.

The system offers a breakthrough in charging technology by allowing electric haul truck batteries to be charged while on the move. Furthermore, the system’s flexible infrastructure allows for easier relocation compared to existing options, such as fixed overhead trolley systems.

The upcoming trials are the result of over two years of collaboration between BHP and Caterpillar, aimed at creating sustainable energy transfer solutions. BHP plans to validate the Cat DET system within its autonomous operations, focusing on its integration with existing autonomous solutions.

In 2021, BHP partnered with Caterpillar to advance zero-exhaust emissions mining trucks as part of the company’s efforts to reduce operational greenhouse-gas emissions. This collaboration has been instrumental in shaping the required technology and infrastructure to support both diesel-electric and battery-electric trucks, paving the way for more sustainable mining operations.

BHP chief commercial officer Ragnar Udd said the DET technology supported the group’s goal of deploying zero-emissions mining trucks.

“Innovation and technology will play a crucial role as we work towards BHP’s goal of net zero operational emissions by 2050, and we are determined to keep building partnerships like this to achieve this objective,” he said.

Caterpillar group president Denise Johnson added that BHP’s involvement in its early learner programme had been invaluable. “We look forward to continuing that collaboration as we work together to trial the Cat DET system on both diesel-electric and battery-electric trucks at BHP’s sites. This is an important next step to validate the crucial energy management solutions needed to support not only BHP and Caterpillar, but also the broader mining industry.”