XCMG unveils giant electric mining prototypes for Fortescue

Chinese machinery giant, XCMG, has launched two massive battery-electric mining equipment prototypes destined for Australian mine sites, including what it says are the world’s largest all-electric wheel loader and all-electric wheel dozer.

The machines were unveiled during a visit from Fortescue Co-CEO Dino Otranto and Fortescue Metals chief executive, Javier La Rosa Pichot, as part of the companies’ ongoing zero-emissions mining partnership.

The prototypes represent the first equipment produced under a supply framework agreement between XCMG and Fortescue, which will ultimately see more than 100 zero-emission heavy mobile machines supplied to Fortescue’s Pilbara mining operations in Western Australia.

According to XCMG, the new electric loader and wheel dozer have been designed to support mining haul trucks in the 70 to 130-tonne class while delivering zero-emissions operation.

XCMG Machinery president, Lu Chuan, said the launch marked a significant milestone in the partnership between the two companies.

“The rollout of these custom-built prototypes marks a new milestone in our collaboration,” he said.

“XCMG will leverage the full R&D–production–supply–sales–service–finance value chain to ensure the successful implementation of Fortescue projects and contribute to global green mining development.”

Fortescue’s delegation also toured XCMG’s mining machinery division during the visit, where they inspected additional electrified mining equipment including the XDE150ES electric mining water truck.

XCMG said the machines will undergo initial testing in China before being shipped to Australia for further on-site trials and optimisation at Fortescue’s Pilbara operations.

Fortescue has committed to eliminating fossil fuel use across its Australian iron ore operations by 2030 and has been accelerating investment in battery-electric and hydrogen-powered mining equipment as part of its decarbonisation strategy.

The unveiling comes amid growing global demand for zero-emissions heavy equipment, with major manufacturers racing to develop battery-electric solutions for large-scale mining and construction applications.