ABB has been chosen by First Mode to supply energy storage systems for a fleet of zero-emission mining haulage trucks. The project aims to demonstrate ABB’s capacity to help companies electrify transportation and eliminate the use of diesel fuel in the mining sector.
First Mode ordered 80 ABB BORDLINE ESS batteries based on lithium-ion battery technology. This extends the collaboration of both companies in the electrification of heavy transport. In 2022, First Mode used ABB’s megawatt-scale DC-to-DC converter and on-site engineering expertise to launch the world’s first ultra-class haulage truck powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.
The prototype truck was unveiled at a platinum mine in South Africa and subjected to rigorous testing in highly demanding operations. The successful test proved that a combination of fuel cells and batteries can be a feasible substitute for diesel to power heavy-duty vehicles. Replacing just one diesel truck with an electric model would reduce CO2 emissions by 2,700 metric tons annually, equivalent to removing 700 passenger cars from the road.
First Mode’s order will allow the production of a full fleet of zero-emission haulage trucks powered by ABB technology. The 80 BORDLINE ESS batteries, with a total 2.6 megawatt-hours, will be used in the construction of hybrid hydrogen and battery powerplants to power the new ultra-class haulage trucks.
ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, while First Mode is a global carbon reduction company developing clean energy solutions for heavy industry’s toughest problems.
Source: PRESS RELEASE
Image Source: ABB