First Mode has placed an order for 80 ABB BORDLINE ESS, leveraging the cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology. This order signifies an extension of the successful partnership between the two companies in the electrification of heavy transport. Notably, in 2022, First Mode made history by introducing the world's first ultra-class haulage truck powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, utilizing ABB's megawatt-scale DC-to-DC converter and expertise in on-site engineering.
Replacing a single diesel truck with an electric model has the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by a 2,700 metric tons annually, equivalent to removing 700 passenger cars from the road. Such significant emission reductions highlight the immense environmental benefits that come from transitioning to zero-emission mining haulage trucks.
The prototype electric truck, which debuted at a platinum mine in South Africa, underwent rigorous testing in one of the most demanding mining operations. The vehicle excelled, successfully demonstrating that the combination of batteries and fuel cells is a viable and efficient alternative to traditional diesel-powered trucks.
"The mining environment presents a unique combination of high-power charge and discharge, continuous operation, and significant thermal management challenges that are not found in many other applications," stated Krunal Desai, Director of Electrical Engineering at First Mode. "ABB's ESS technology is an ideal fit for this application, with excellent power performance and inherent safety. Energy storage will both increase the peak power output available to the truck when ascending a grade and recover energy through regenerative braking when descending."
Source: ABB