Miner BHP will trial the first-ever, battery-electric Toyota HiLux double-cab ute prototype at its Port Hedland operations in Western Australia where it will be used in a range of applications traditionally performed by diesel-powered light vehicles.
The trial will start in late November and run for about 12 months.
“Joining with BHP to help further develop this HiLux BEV prototype is an important step in creating low-emission technologies in the light commercial vehicle space, particularly for use in harsh and demanding mining environments,” said Toyota Australia President and CEO Matthew Callachor.
“This trial is also a demonstration of the commitment shown by both parties to the Memorandum of Understanding signed [in August 2023], which leverages the strengths of both companies to develop new, safe and exciting technologies to address decarbonisation.”
BHP President Australia, Geraldine Slattery added, “Our ambition to electrify our light vehicle fleet and lower greenhouse gas emissions across our operations depends on enabling technology that can only be achieved through collaborations like this, with leading suppliers like Toyota.
“With around 5,000 light vehicles at our sites across Australia, we look forward to putting the Battery Electric HiLux through its paces and seeing the potential it can bring, not only to reduce diesel use in mining but eventually for all HiLux drivers too,” she said.
Source: BHP