Fortescue has ordered a major fleet of fully autonomous and electric surface mining equipment from Epiroc to be used at its iron ore mines in the Pilbara region of Western Australia – the largest order contract in Eprioc’s history.
The contract, valued at A$350 million over five years, includes a fleet of Epiroc blasthole drill rigs, the cable-electric Pit Viper 271 E, and the battery-electric SmartROC D65 BE. A first portion of the contract, valued around $16.2 million, is expected to be booked in the second quarter of 2025.
“Fortescue is on the forefront of the mining industry in reducing emissions from operations, and in using automation to strengthen safety and productivity, and we are proud to support them on this important effort,” said Epiroc President and CEO Helena Hedblom.
“Not only is this the largest contract we have ever received, but it is also a major step forward for our electric-powered surface equipment. We look forward to contributing to Fortescue’s continued success now and in the future.”
The machines will eliminate around 35 million liters of diesel consumption as well as cut over 90,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, according to Fortescue.
Source: Epiroc