A new collaboration between Hitachi Energy and charging tech organization BluVein will accelerate the safe delivery of electricity for battery-electric haul trucks of up to 400 metric tons while decarbonizing fleets and operations.
The pair, which inked a memorandum of understanding confirmed March 5, will bring together Hitachi Energy’s advanced power electronics and digital charging technologies with BluVein’s e-rail charging technology.
“The collaboration will fast-track the development of a high-powered, fast and flexible dynamic charging solution for surface and underground mines and quarries in Australia and across the globe,” the two said in a joint statement. Specifically, BluVein will focus on its e-rail and truck connections, and Hitachi will employ its power electronics and digital solutions to both power and monitor the entire system.
“This strategic collaboration with BluVein will enable our mining customers to trial next-generation dynamic charging solutions vital for achieving net-zero emission targets without compromising on operating practices or productivity,” said Marco Berardi, head of Grid & Power Quality Solutions and Service, Hitachi Energy.
“We believe this new collaborative approach will deliver on our common goal to accelerate the transition to all-electric mining and a carbon-neutral future.”
“This MoU supports BluVein’s mission of partnering with a technology leader to deliver a universal dynamic connector that facilitates the removal of fossil fuel from mines and help propel the industry globally to meet its decarbonization goals,” added James Oliver, CEO, BluVein. “Together, we are helping the industry move to a more sustainable and responsible future.”
The companies said they are also exploring off-vehicle hardware requirements for underground and smaller fleets.
Source: Hitachi