First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has partnered with Hitachi Construction Machinery to commission what they say is the world’s first ultra-large battery electric vehicle (BEV) mining truck at its Kansanshi copper and gold mine, referred to by HCM as the Full Battery Dump Truck. The initiative underscores FQM’s commitment to innovation, energy efficiency, reduced reliance on fossil fuels, and lower carbon emissions across its mining operations.
The all-electric Hitachi EH4000 truck, which integrates advanced battery technology with trolley-assist systems, was commissioned at the Kansanshi site. This milestone represents a significant step towards decarbonising heavy mining haulage and positions Zambia as a global leader in sustainable mining technology.
Speaking at the commissioning event, attended by IM Editorial Director Paul Moore, Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr Hapenga Kabeta, praised the partnership, saying that the launch of the partnership was very important to the development agenda of Zambia, and that the use of clean energy over fossil fuels is the way forward.
He said: “Environmental stewardship is essential if we are to protect the planet from the rising impacts of climate change. Such strategic partnerships represent the future of responsible and sustainable mining. This collaboration is not accidental but is part of the very DNA of First Quantum Minerals. It ticks all the boxes, caring for the planet, embracing technology, and acting as a good corporate citizen. This environmental stewardship focuses on the three Ps of the bottom line: profit, people, and the planet. First Quantum Minerals employs a high proportion of Zambian citizens, approximately 96%, including in senior management roles. As a government, we are proud of this achievement.”
Dr Kabeta further noted that FQM is not only a leader in copper production in Zambia but also a responsible corporate citizen and a pioneer in technology adoption, driven predominantly by Zambian talent, and that the partnership places Zambia on the map as a leading mining destination where cutting-edge technology drives success. “It demonstrates that such investments are possible in a stable, predictable, and stakeholder-driven business environment,” he continued.
Speaking at the same event, First Quantum Minerals Chief Executive Officer Tristan Pascall, highlighted the collaborative effort: “We are standing at an event where Zambia is right at the forefront of renewable energy and low-emissions technology. Today is about what can be achieved when a mining company, a technology partner, and government work together to move the industry forward. Innovation is not simple, but it is significant. The battery electric truck we are commissioning today has been years in the making, involving extensive research, development, and close cooperation. Government remains a key partner through ZCCM-IH’s shareholding, and we particularly recognise the Mine Safety Department for enabling safe testing of this new technology.”
He added: “This is a strong example of an enabling environment that allows industry to invest in innovation for the betterment of society. Through new technology, First Quantum is creating opportunities for our Zambian employees to lead in battery electric and trolley-assist systems — expertise that is currently unique in the world.”
Pascall further said that the fleet electrification has real potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially at a time of global fuel price pressures, and that the innovation makes business sense, leverages Zambia’s abundant hydroelectric renewable energy, and reflects First Quantum’s culture of continuous improvement, safety, and adaptation. “Our long-standing partnership with Hitachi dates back to 2012 with the introduction of trolley-enabled systems. Today’s success is the result of that shared vision and commitment.”
And Ray Kitic, Vice President of Hitachi’s Mining Business Unit, said that the success in the programme stems from the infrastructure, scale, and most importantly, the will of the partner to drive change. “We value the depth of First Quantum Minerals’ commitment to decarbonisation, not just for headlines but for real impact on operations, Zambia, and society at large. Zambia’s high proportion of hydroelectric power, up to 85%, makes it an ideal location to demonstrate true decarbonisation across Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. Our guiding principles for this project have been clear: the solution must be safe, practical, durable, and commercially viable. We are proud of what has been achieved in a short time and excited about the future. First Quantum Minerals has been an outstanding partner, and we look forward to continuing this journey together for the benefit of society.”
First Quantum says it believes the launch of the BEV truck at its Kansanshi demonstrates how strategic partnerships, enabling government policies, and technological innovation can drive sustainable mining while delivering economic and environmental benefits.
During the showcase, Hitachi Construction Machinery reported the successful demonstration of both environmental and operational performance by the Full Battery Dump Truck, building on the results of a technological feasibility trial conducted at the same mine from June 2024 to August 2025. Close to 30 mining customers from approximately 25 companies attended the showcase, observing the Full Battery Dump Truck operating and charging under overhead trolley lines. Participants also had the opportunity to board the stationary Full Battery Dump Truck, inspecting its design which maintains manoeuvrability and stability without changing its gross vehicle weight when loaded and center of gravity. Attendees expressed high expectations for its contribution to a decarbonized society and enhanced productivity.
The technological feasibility trial saw the Full Battery Dump Truck cover a total haul road distance of over 4,000 km and transport more than 30,000 t, performing as per its development concept. Crucially, obtaining real-world operating data from the mine site provides the strongest validation for its commercialisation in FY2027 (ie by end March 2028).
The showcase also provided the opportunity for invited guests to see a full suite of Hitachi Construction Machinery Group products in operation and on display including, our electric excavators (EX5600-7E), diesel variant trolley trucks (EH4000AC-3) and Bradken buckets and dump bodies. Digital solutions such as Wenco FMS and the recently launched LANDCROS Connect Insight were also demonstrated – offering HCM customers a chance to observe and recognise its holistic approach to providing solutions beyond machinery for the future of mining. Hitachi Construction Machinery says it will continue to refine the Full Battery Dump Truck through co-creation with partner companies, including First Quantum, contributing to the realisation of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from mining machinery.
Hiroshi Kanezawa, Hitachi Construction Machinery Executive Officer, Vice President of Mining Business Unit: “We are delighted to have successfully completed the technological feasibility trial in partnership with First Quantum and to have showcased the results to many customers. The ‘S’ in ‘LANDCROS,’ our new company name and brand effective April 1, 2027, embodies our desire to propose innovative Solutions. The real-world operating data obtained from this technological feasibility trial demonstrates the Full Battery Dump Truck’s capability for continuous operation in actual mine sites, enabling us to propose optimal operational plans and trolley line designs. We will continue to refine this innovative technology and solutions with a view to commercial deployment in FY2027, contributing to sustainable mining operations by leveraging diverse power sources while achieving zero emissions and greater energy efficiency.”
Source: im-mining.com
