In a significant advancement for the mining industry, Scania has announced a collaborative effort with Australian mining giant Fortescue to develop and validate a fully integrated autonomous road train solution. This innovative partnership aims to enhance mining operations by leveraging autonomous technology while prioritising sustainability.

With the global mining industry undergoing transformation, the need for autonomous solutions has surged. The joint project aligns with the trend of tackling industry challenges through technological advancements that prioritise reduced environmental impact.

“By utilising Scania’s extensive knowledge in supplying trucks to the mining industry and our expertise in autonomous driving, the Road Train solution will reduce the overall mining footprint,” stated Manfred Streit, Managing Director at Scania Australia. The autonomous road train will be developed, tested, and validated at Fortescue's iron ore operations in Christmas Creek, Western Australia. 

The autonomous solution will integrate Scania's advanced truck automation technology with Fortescue’s Fleet Management System (FMS). This system is designed to optimise fleet utilisation and maximise productivity while ensuring efficient fuel and energy consumption, thereby reducing carbon emissions. The project will also incorporate Scania’s onboard automation hardware for the R770 prime mover platform, which will be paired with three trailers that collectively weigh 120 tonnes, with a payload capacity of 240 tonnes.

“This is a great opportunity for Scania to learn more about autonomy in demanding conditions with an innovative partner,” said Peter Hafmar, Head of Autonomous Solutions at Scania. This collaboration is poised to push the boundaries of what is achievable in harsh mining environments.

Fortescue Metals Group Chief Executive Officer Dino Otranto expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Our deep expertise in autonomous haulage has enabled us to jointly develop a unique autonomous solution that unlocks high-grade satellite deposits for us to mine economically. This project will help us maximise productivity with unique low-cost solutions in our mining value chain.”

Scania Australia has a history of collaboration with Fortescue, and the realisation of this joint development project is a testament to their shared commitment to innovation. “Their heavy haul trucks operate in an incredibly harsh environment. The local and global mining specialists have devised a solution that will bring efficiency and safety,” said Robert Taylor, Head of Mining at Scania Australia.

Both companies are united in their focus on safety, operational efficiency, and reducing carbon footprints within the mining sector. The collaboration between Scania and Fortescue not only highlights the growing importance of autonomous technology in mining but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices in a traditionally resource-intensive industry. As this project unfolds, it promises to reshape the future of mining operations with a focus on environmental stewardship and automation.