Copper miner Codelco has announced its plans to test the Cat® Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system with its fleet of diesel-electric haul trucks at its Radomiro Tomic Division in Chile. This initiative is part of the company’s commitment to decarbonisation and sustainability, aimed at reducing its carbon footprint through the use of innovative technologies and electrification solutions.
Cat DET is comprised of a series of integrated elements: an energy transfer module that converts energy from a mine site’s power source to the required voltage, an electrified rail system to transmit the energy, and a machine system to connect and transfer the energy to the truck’s powertrain. This system transfers electricity directly to machines while they are moving. This includes current haul trucks and future battery electric haul trucks. By using Cat DET, the site will consume less fuel, lower greenhouse gases and extend truck engine life.
“We are steadily moving toward the mining of the future,” said Felipe Lagno, Codelco’s Corporate Manager of Innovation and Technology, who explained that, according to preliminary calculations, truck emissions could be reduced by 60% to 70%. “We have the opportunity to reduce our environmental impact and extend the useful life of our trucks without compromising productivity. Every project linked to technological innovation brings us closer to our purpose of being a cornerstone of sustainable development for Chile and the world,” he added.
“This pilot program is the result of extensive collaboration between Codelco, Finning SA and Caterpillar, and will enable Caterpillar to further refine and improve our Cat DET system’s design and functionality with voice of customer embedded,” said Marc Cameron, Caterpillar Senior Vice President. “Together, we are not only transforming how fleets will operate at site but also paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.”
The pilot is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026 at the open-pit operations. The test, expected to last about a year, will involve Cat® 798 AC trucks and the installation of rail on one of the ramps where the machines operate. Cat dealer Finning SA will also contribute to the success of the test by assisting the installation and maintenance of the Cat DET system.
“For Finning, this industrial test – enabled by the Strategic Alliance that Codelco has consolidated with us over the years – represents a significant opportunity to advance the integration of cutting-edge technologies in mining. It marks a milestone in driving innovation through sustainable practices and reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship, with a forward-looking perspective,” said Juan Pablo Amar, President of Finning SA.
This project is a new step in Codelco’s roadmap to drive the electrification of mining equipment with the goal of decarbonising its operations. To achieve this, the Corporation is actively pursuing joint solutions with OEMs, research centres, and both national and international universities, among other industry stakeholders.
