The system uses an arm on the truck that touches a power rail in the mine. This lets the truck charge as it drives, even when it's going up steep hills. It's a big deal because it means the trucks can work longer without stopping to charge.
Denise Johnson, who leads Caterpillar's Resource Industries group, said:
"We believe Cat DET provides a technological leap for the mining industry. Our team of innovators designed this system to provide immediate benefit to miners who want to lower their operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions today while also creating flexibility for the future. We know customers need choices to fit their unique site objectives."
The DET system has three main parts. There's a power module that changes energy from the mine's power source so it can charge the trucks. Then there's a rail system for charging that can be moved around and fit different mine layouts. It even works on curved roads. Lastly, there are transfer arms on the trucks that can be put on either side and work with different truck types.
This new system works with both all-electric and hybrid mining trucks. It helps mines save money, cut down on pollution, and get more work done.
Caterpillar's also mixing this charging system with its self-driving truck tech. Marc Cameron, a senior vice president at the company, explained:
"We believe mine sites will benefit from enhanced efficiency with the integration of electrification and automation. When combined, these technologies will help miners achieve production targets while simultaneously managing energy demands."
This isn't Caterpillar's first big move in electric mining. In 2022, they showed off their first huge electric mining truck.
Other mining companies are also moving towards electric and self-driving trucks. Fortescue in Western Australia is already using trucks that drive themselves. And recently, there was a massive deal for 360 self-driving electric mining trucks from Liebherr, one of Caterpillar's competitors.
Source: Caterpillar
