Rio Tinto Partners with China to Pioneer Battery Swap Technology in Mongolia

Rio Tinto, a global mining giant, has joined forces with China's State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) to introduce groundbreaking battery swap technology for electric haul trucks at the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia. This strategic partnership was announced on November 6 and aims to accelerate the mining industry's transition to a sustainable future.

The collaboration between Rio Tinto and SPIC will mark the first demonstration of a complete battery electric truck ecosystem in a mining operation outside of China. The two-year pilot project will involve eight 91-tonne payload haul trucks, 13 800kWh batteries, and a robotic battery swap and charging station. These vehicles will be deployed for non-production activities such as tailings dam rehabilitation and topsoil movement.

Battery swap technology offers a compelling solution to the limitations of traditional charging infrastructure. Instead of relying on lengthy charging times at fixed stations, electric vehicles equipped with this technology can quickly exchange depleted battery packs for fully charged ones. This innovative approach significantly reduces downtime and enhances operational efficiency.

Rio Tinto's Chief Decarbonization Officer, Jonathon McCarthy, emphasized the significance of this partnership and said, “By partnering with SPIC, we are tapping into the latest technological advancements from China to accelerate the decarbonization of our operations. Battery swap technology offers greater flexibility and reduced downtime compared to traditional charging methods.”

Han Zhiwei, Chairman of State Power Investment Group Capital Holding Co., Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. He said, “We are excited to bring our leading green transportation innovations to the global market. This partnership with Rio Tinto will showcase the strength of Chinese enterprises in green technology and contribute to the world's low-carbon transition.”

Deirdre Lingenfelder, CEO of Oyu Tolgoi, highlighted the mine's role in driving sustainable mining practices and said, “Oyu Tolgoi is proud to be at the forefront of this innovative technology. This project aligns with our commitment to sustainable growth and reducing our carbon footprint. By embracing battery electric vehicles and other emissions reduction initiatives, we are actively shaping a net-zero future for our operations.”

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining group, producing commodities that are essential to modern life, including copper, iron ore, aluminium, diamonds, lithium, and uranium. The company is committed to operating responsibly, with a focus on environmental protection, social responsibility, and sustainable development.

Rio Tinto, with its vast global operations, aims to leverage this pilot project to explore the wider application of battery swap technology across its fleet of approximately 700 haul trucks. By adopting such innovative solutions, the company seeks to significantly reduce its carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable mining industry.

About State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC)

SPIC is one of the largest power generation groups in China, with a strong focus on clean energy and renewable power sources. The company is actively involved in research and development of advanced energy technologies, including battery storage and electric vehicle solutions.

By combining their expertise, Rio Tinto and SPIC are poised to reshape the future of mining transportation, driving the industry towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.