On April 27, Komatsu announced a new collaboration with Brazilian mining giant Vale and U.S. engine manufacturer Cummins to develop dual-fuel engines for its ultra-large dump trucks. These trucks, which operate at Vale’s mining sites, will be capable of using a mixture of diesel and ethanol, aiming to cut CO2 emissions by up to 70% during operation.
The collaboration marks Komatsu’s first initiative to retrofit existing mining equipment with a lower environmental impact power source. Over the next few years, the partnership will focus on developing dual-fuel engines and gradually introducing dual-fuel versions of Komatsu’s 830E and 930E dump trucks at Vale’s mines.
By blending up to 70% ethanol with diesel, these trucks are expected to significantly reduce emissions compared to their diesel-only counterparts. This initiative not only aligns with Vale’s cost reduction and decarbonization goals for 2030 but also contributes to the broader effort of reducing carbon footprints in mining operations.
Komatsu is committed to reducing CO2 emissions at customer sites, targeting carbon neutrality by mid-century. Given that emissions from large dump trucks contribute heavily to the overall CO2 output in mining, the company is also exploring other power sources such as battery electric and hydrogen fuel cells.
The collaboration leverages Cummins’ expertise in internal combustion engines, Komatsu’s development and manufacturing capabilities, and Vale’s knowledge of ethanol and biofuels to create more sustainable mining operations. 
