• The two companies have entered into a Strategic Collaboration Agreement aimed at delivering solutions for electrification and decarbonization.
• The agreement comes at a time when mining companies globally are seeking methods to achieve net zero emissions in heavy industrial operations.
• A specialized team consisting of representatives from both organizations will focus on development strategies and market introduction plans.

Komatsu and ABB have formally signed a Strategic Collaboration Agreement, aiming to jointly advance and market integrated solutions that bring the mining industry closer to net zero emissions. By leveraging their combined industry knowledge and equipment capabilities, these global leaders will drive interoperability across renewable energy generation and fully electrified mining equipment using an open platform.

As one of the world’s largest suppliers of construction and mining machinery, Komatsu now partners with ABB, a recognized leader in automation and electrification technologies. Together, they seek to accelerate the decarbonization of mining operations alongside their customers, partners, and suppliers, ensuring sustained productivity, enhanced energy efficiency, and industry-wide value.

According to management consultancy McKinsey & Co., the global mining industry accounts for up to 7% of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions, much of which stems from diesel-powered vehicle operations in both open-pit and underground mining. The necessity for decarbonizing mobile mining equipment is well recognized, and ABB and Komatsu’s collaboration targets the reduction—and eventual elimination—of diesel dependency through mine electrification.

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ABB and Komatsu are working on innovative solutions such as fully electrified mining machinery and advanced energy management systems. The driving force behind these efforts is innovation, which both companies view as essential for reaching carbon reduction targets. Each will contribute experts to a working group tasked with outlining the requirements and strategies necessary for achieving net zero emissions from grid to wheel.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with ABB and look forward to harnessing our combined industry-leading products and technical expertise to move mining operations toward net zero emissions, fostering a future where sustainability benefits people, businesses, and the planet,” stated Dan Funcannon, Senior Vice President of Surface Haulage at Komatsu.

“By collaborating, we’re poised to make a groundbreaking impact on how mining companies manage their sites in the near future,” said Joachim Braun, President of ABB Process Industries. “This strategic agreement will yield mutual business advantages and technology solutions for the mining sector. Industry collaboration has already proven to accelerate meaningful progress, and we’re excited to drive the next phase.”

Visitors to Komatsu’s booth at MINExpo 2024 from September 24-26 will get a glimpse of this collaboration, where ABB’s Robot Automated Connection Device (ACD) will be showcased. The ACD is envisioned as a fully automated connection device designed to work seamlessly with ABB’s eMine™ FastCharge solution for future battery-electric trucks.

With 130 years of expertise in the mining sector, ABB has pioneered the integration of electrification, automation, and digitalization in mining operations.

ABB’s Process Automation division specializes in automating, electrifying, and digitalizing industrial processes that address essential needs—from energy and water supply to material production and goods transportation. With around 20,000 employees, advanced technology, and service know-how, ABB Process Automation supports customers in various industries in improving operational performance and safety, contributing to a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

As a leader in electrification and automation technology, ABB is committed to advancing a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. Their solutions blend engineering expertise with software to optimize the manufacturing, transport, and operational processes. Drawing on over 140 years of experience, ABB’s approximately 105,000 employees are focused on driving innovations that fuel industrial transformation.

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