Codelco, the world's largest copper producer, announced plans to test the Cat® Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system with its fleet of diesel-electric extraction trucks in the Radomiro Tomic Division. This initiative is part of the company's commitment to decarbonization and sustainability, which seeks to reduce its carbon footprint through the use of innovative technologies and electrification solutions.
This system will be tested in the Radomiro Tomic Division with three diesel-electric extraction trucks from its fleet. Preliminary estimates indicate that these machines could reduce their emissions by 60% to 70%, in addition to extending the useful life of their engines.
The Cat® DET system is comprised of several integrated elements: a power transfer module that converts power from the reservoir's electrical source to the required voltage, a system of electrified rails to transmit power, and an on-machine connection system to transfer power to the truck's powertrain.
This system transfers electricity directly to the machines while they are in motion, including both current trucks and future battery-electric trucks. By using Cat DET, the site will consume less fuel, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and extend the life of the trucks' engines.
"We are constantly moving towards the mining of the future," says Felipe Lagno, Codelco's corporate manager of Innovation and Technology, who explains that, according to preliminary calculations, emissions from trucks could be reduced by between 60% and 70%. "We have the opportunity to reduce our environmental impact and extend the life of our trucks without compromising productivity. Each project linked to technological innovation brings us closer to our purpose of being a cornerstone of sustainable development for Chile and the world," he adds.
"This pilot program is the result of an extensive collaboration between Codelco, Finning S.A. and Caterpillar, and will allow Caterpillar to continue to refine and improve the design and functionality of our Cat DET system, incorporating the voice of the customer," said Marc Cameron, senior vice president, Caterpillar. "Together, we are not only transforming the way fleets will operate on site but also paving the way to a more sustainable tomorrow," he adds.
The pilot is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026 in open pit operations. The trial, which is expected to last about a year, will involve Cat® 798 AC trucks and the installation of rails on one of the ramps where the machines operate.
Cat dealer Finning S.A. will also contribute to the success of the trial by assisting in the installation and maintenance of the Cat DET system.
"For Finning, this industrial trial – made possible by the strategic alliance Codelco has forged with us over the years – represents a significant opportunity to advance the integration of cutting-edge technologies in mining. It marks a milestone in the promotion of innovation through sustainable practices and reinforces our commitment to caring for the environment, with a view to the future," says Juan Pablo Amar, president of the distribution company.
This project is a new step in Codelco's roadmap to promote the electrification of mining equipment with the aim of decarbonizing its operations. To achieve this, the Corporation is actively promoting joint solutions with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), research centres and universities both national and international, among other industry players.