Autonomy in mining fleets isn’t limited to large truck systems from major OEMs like Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Hitachi. Companies such as ASI Mining, which was recently acquired by Epiroc, have pursued OEM-agnostic autonomous haulage systems (AHS), notably at Roy Hill. Other tech providers like Pronto, SafeAI, Steer, and Xtonomy are also making strides in the sector. Chinese players such as TAGE Idriver and Waytous hold a strong position in China, while Eacon Mining is extending its reach from China to Australia, having secured partnerships with MACA and its parent company, Thiess.
In Brazil, U&M Mineração e Construção S/A deployed its own AHS on Caterpillar 777 trucks last year. Another Brazilian company, Lume Robotics, based in Vitoria, is also gaining attention in the autonomous driving space. Founded in 2019, Lume Robotics emerged from the IARA (Intelligent Autonomous Robotic Automobile) Project at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES). The startup specializes in advanced technologies such as deep learning, AI, computer vision, and autonomous robotics, focusing on developing practical solutions that prioritize human safety.
Lume Robotics’ CEO, Ranik Guidolini, explained that their system leverages data from external sensors like LiDAR, Radar, IMU, GPS, and internal sensors such as vehicle odometry. It generates real-time maps, locates vehicles, and detects obstacles—ranging from pedestrians to vehicles and road elements like gates and speed bumps. The system, classified as Level 4 autonomy, requires no human interaction, with vehicles making decisions using AI.
Guidolini estimates the system can reduce accidents by up to 94%, lower operating expenses by 17%, and cut labor costs by 75%. He emphasized that Lume’s solution offers significant cost advantages, being more affordable than both OEM and non-OEM competitors, while maintaining the same functionalities. Additionally, being based in Brazil provides a geographical advantage for local clients, and its flexibility allows customization for specific needs.
In 2021, Lume Robotics demonstrated its solution to a U.S.-headquartered mining company. After a successful proof-of-concept (POC) trial in 2022, the company has been working with the mining firm at its phosphate operation in Brazil, leading to a commercial rollout in 2023. The autonomous truck used for the project is a Mercedes Actros, retrofitted with Lume Robotics’ technology.
Lume’s autonomous systems utilize Ouster LiDARs as the primary sensor, although radar, cameras, or IMU sensors can be employed when needed. The system controls all aspects of vehicle operation, including steering, brakes, throttle, and gears, allowing the trucks to transport mined material without supervision.
Another POC was conducted with Votorantim Cimentos at a limestone quarry, using a Mercedes truck variant called MARTA (Mining Autonomous Robotic Truck Arocs). This collaboration involved VIX Logistica, one of Brazil’s largest logistics firms, which holds a major equity stake in Lume Robotics.
Lume also has a partnership with Mercedes-Benz to automate trucks in Brazil across various industries, including mining, ports, and airports. One notable project involved autonomous transport within a cleaning products production complex for Ype. Beyond mining, Lume’s technology is being tested in the paper industry with Suzano, the world’s largest cellulose producer, where an autonomous electric truck without a cabin is being developed to transport 64 tonnes of cellulose at a port terminal.
In addition to haulage, Lume has developed a Locomotive Maintenance Facility Monitoring System for Vale, which automates locomotive identification and tracks their maintenance status using AI and computer vision. At the Tubarao iron ore port, Lume also deployed an autonomous water truck for dust suppression, in partnership with Vale and UFES.
Lume Robotics is continuously expanding its capabilities, making strides in autonomous solutions across diverse industries, including mining, logistics, and heavy industry, both within Brazil and globally.
