Fortescue and MacLean have announced their strategic partnership to transform the mining industry through the electrification of their battery-powered motor graders . The collaboration was unveiled at MINExpo 2024 in Las Vegas, highlighting the delivery of 30 GR8 EVs, equipped with the Fortescue Zero battery power system, to open-pit mining operations in Western Australia.
Fortescue, recognised for its leadership in green technology, and MacLean, a global leader in underground mining vehicles, are joining forces to tackle the challenge of reducing carbon emissions in mining . This initiative aligns with Fortescue’s commitment to achieve “Real Zero” in its operations by 2030.
MacLean GR8 battery-powered electric motor graders. Source: Fortescue
Fortescue powers MacLean electric graders
The fleet of GR8 EV motor graders, manufactured by MacLean, will be powered by the Fortescue Zero battery system . These machines will mark a milestone in the electrification of open-cast mining, a sector that has historically been reliant on fossil fuels. The first of these machines is expected in 2026, with the aim of having the entire fleet operational by 2029 .
For MacLean, this collaboration represents a new chapter in its evolution as an electric vehicle manufacturer. CEO Kevin MacLean underlined the company’s role in transforming underground mining and its commitment to decarbonising global mining. “ We are proud to partner with Fortescue on this important development ,” he commented.
For his part, Dino Otranto, CEO of Fortescue, said that this alliance is key to its goal of leading the global market for green metals and technology. ” The world will look to Fortescue for the answer to how we achieve this change ,” he said. With this partnership, Fortescue reinforces its vision of a future in which mining operations are not dependent on fossil fuels.
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Source: MacLean Engineering
Photos: Fortescue