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Codelco to Test Innovative CAT System to Transfer Electrical Power to Moving Trucks

 

 

October 2, 2025 - Codelco has announced plans to test the Cat® Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system with its fleet of diesel-electric extraction trucks in the Radomiro Tomic Division. This initiative is part of the company's commitment to decarbonization and sustainability, which seeks to reduce its carbon footprint through the use of innovative technologies and electrification solutions.

The Cat® DET system is comprised of a number of integrated elements: a power transfer module that converts power from the reservoir's electrical source to the required voltage, a system of electrified rails to transmit power, and an on-machine connection system to transfer power to the truck's powertrain. This system transfers electricity directly to the machines while they are in motion, including both current trucks and future battery-electric trucks. By using Cat DET, the site will consume less fuel, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and extend the life of the trucks' engines.

"We are constantly moving towards the mining of the future," says Felipe Lagno, Codelco's corporate manager of Innovation and Technology, who explains that, according to preliminary calculations, emissions from trucks could be reduced by between 60% and 70%. "We have the opportunity to reduce our environmental impact and extend the life of our trucks without compromising productivity. Each project linked to technological innovation brings us closer to our purpose of being a cornerstone of sustainable development for Chile and the world," he adds.

"This pilot program is the result of an extensive collaboration between Codelco, Finning S.A. and Caterpillar, and will allow Caterpillar to continue to refine and improve the design and functionality of our Cat DET system, incorporating the voice of the customer," said Marc Cameron, senior vice president, Caterpillar. "Together, we are not only transforming the way fleets will operate on site, but also paving the way to a more sustainable tomorrow," he adds.

The pilot is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026 in open pit operations. The trial, which is expected to last about a year, will involve Cat® 798 AC trucks and the installation of rails on one of the ramps where the machines operate.

Cat dealer Finning S.A. will also contribute to the success of the trial by assisting in the installation and maintenance of the Cat DET system.

"For Finning, this industrial trial – made possible by the strategic alliance Codelco has forged with us over the years – represents a significant opportunity to advance the integration of cutting-edge technologies in mining. It marks a milestone in the promotion of innovation through sustainable practices and reinforces our commitment to caring for the environment, with a view to the future," says Juan Pablo Amar, president of the distribution company.

This project is a new step in Codelco's roadmap to promote the electrification of mining equipment with the aim of decarbonizing its operations. To achieve this, the Corporation is actively promoting joint solutions with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), research centers and universities both national and international, among other industry players.

About Codelco

Codelco is the world's largest copper producer, specializing in the exploration, development and extraction of mineral resources. It processes these resources to produce refined copper and by-products, which it then markets to customers around the world.

Since its nationalization in 1971, Codelco has contributed a total of 158,000 million US dollars to the State of Chile (adjusted to 2023 values).

The company operates in seven main mining divisions in Chile: Chuquicamata, Ministro Hales, Radomiro Tomic, Gabriela Mistral, Salvador, Andina and El Teniente, in addition to the Ventanas Refinery. Codelco also maintains commercial offices in the United Kingdom, the United States, China and Singapore.

About Caterpillar

With sales and revenues of $64.8 billion in 2024, Caterpillar Inc. is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.

For nearly 100 years, Caterpillar has helped its customers build a better, more sustainable world, and is committed to a lower-carbon future. Its innovative products and services, backed by its global network of distributors, deliver exceptional value that helps its customers succeed.
Caterpillar operates on all continents, primarily through three main segments: Construction Industries, Resources Industries, and Energy and Transportation, and offers financial and related services through its Financial Products segment.

About Finning S.A.

Finning is the world's largest Caterpillar dealer, providing unmatched service to its customers for more than 90 years. Headquartered in Surrey, British Columbia, it provides Caterpillar equipment, parts, services and performance solutions in Western Canada, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, the United Kingdom and Ireland.