Chile’s State-owned copper major Codelco will pilot Caterpillar’s dynamic energy transfer (DET) system at its Radomiro Tomic division, in what the companies say could be a major leap in the electrification of haulage fleets.

The trial will involve three Cat 798 AC diesel-electric haul trucks operating with an electrified rail and power transfer module that supplies electricity directly to the trucks’ drivetrains while in motion. Preliminary estimates suggest emissions could be cut by 60% to 70%, while also extending the life of the trucks’ engines.

“We are steadily advancing toward the mining of the future,” said Felipe Lagno, Codelco’s corporate manager of innovation and technology. “We have the opportunity to reduce our environmental impact and extend the useful life of our trucks without compromising productivity. Every project linked to technological innovation brings us closer to our goal of being a cornerstone of sustainable development for Chile and the world.”

Caterpillar described the initiative as a customer-led step in refining the DET system, which can be used on current and future battery-electric trucks.

“This pilot programme is the result of an extensive collaboration between Codelco, Finning SA, and Caterpillar, and will allow Caterpillar to continue refining and improving the design and functionality of our Cat DET system, incorporating the voice of the customer,” said Caterpillar senior VP Marc Cameron. “Together, we are not only transforming the way fleets operate on-site, but also paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.”

The pilot will start in the second quarter of 2026 and run for about a year, with rails installed on one of the ramps at Radomiro Tomic’s openpit operations.

Codelco dealer Finning SA will support the installation and maintenance of the DET system.

The pilot forms part of Codelco’s broader roadmap to decarbonise operations by promoting equipment electrification in partnership with original-equipment manufacturers, research centres, and universities.