Newmont Corporation has announced the commissioning of its first battery-electric large mining truck, the Early Learner Cat® 793 XE, at the Cripple Creek and Victor (CC&V) mine in Teller County, Colorado, USA. This development marks a significant milestone for Newmont, made possible through its strategic alliance with Caterpillar Inc.
Natascha Viljoen, Newmont’s Chief Operating Officer, stated, “The arrival of the Early Learner Cat 793 XE underscores our ongoing commitment to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across our business. As we look toward the future, our focus remains on creating a safer and more productive mining environment. This battery-electric large mining truck is a crucial step in advancing our safety and sustainability commitments.”
Currently, diesel combustion machines used in surface and underground mining contribute significantly to Newmont’s carbon emissions. By introducing innovative solutions like the Early Learner 793 XE at the mine-site level, Newmont aims to demonstrate its dedication to reducing emissions.
Denise Johnson, Group President of Resource Industries at Caterpillar, emphasized, “As the mining industry navigates the energy transition, a diverse set of solutions will be essential for our customers to meet their operational and sustainability objectives. We are excited about our collaboration with Newmont and look forward to understanding the implementation and impact of the Early Learner 793 XE at CC&V.”
Newmont and Caterpillar will focus on validating and testing the Early Learner 793 XE, which will provide insights into how mining operations can integrate battery-electric large mining trucks, setting a new industry standard.
Their strategic alliance, established in 2021, aims to deliver a fully connected, automated, zero-carbon emitting, end-to-end mining system. Together, they are committed to creating a safer, more productive mining environment and helping Newmont achieve its 2030 GHG emissions reduction target of over 30%, with the ultimate goal of reaching net-zero carbon by 2050.
