Mining giants back eight winning ideas in global Charge On Innovation Challenge to decarbonise mining

A unique partnership between Echion Technologies and DB Engineering & Consulting, has been selected as one of 8 winners in the Charge On Innovation Challenge.

The initiative was launched in 2021 by BHP, Rio Tinto and Vale and sought to accelerate commercialisation of effective solutions for charging large electric haul trucks while simultaneously demonstrating there is an emerging market for these solutions in mining.

What problem are the new ideas looking to solve?

With 80% of a mine’s emissions coming from the fleets of diesel powered trucks used in their operations, it is clear that to decarbonise a new electric solution for large haul trucks needs to be found. The challenge is complicated by the need for unprecedented power levels that will be required for these vehicles.

The other winning submissions came from ABB, Ampcontrol and Tritium (Australia), BluVein XL, Hitachi, Shell Consortium, Siemens Off-board power supply, and 3ME BladeVolt.

Echion Technologies Commercial Director, Ben Ting, commented, ‘This is an important initiative that will transform mining and significantly reduce emissions. We are delighted to have our technology recognised for the value and benefit it can bring in this application.’

He continued, ‘Our partnership with DB Engineering & Consulting, brings together our unique XNO™ battery chemistry and their extensive experience and proven railway technology, in a new way. We look forward to continuing that work as we progress past the Challenge itself.’

Find out more about the Charge On Challenge here: https://chargeoninnovation.com/

And here: Winning technology innovators announced – Charge On Innovation Challenge