Epiroc wins order for world’s largest single autonomous mine

Epiroc has won its largest-ever automation order for the work to convert Roy Hill’s mixed fleet of haul trucks to driverless operation in Australia. The on-going work is said will create the world’s largest single autonomous mine.

The project is estimated to run until 2024 (Photo: Epiroc)

Together with ASI Mining, Epiroc will continue to support Roy Hill’s iron ore mine in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, to develop an autonomous haul truck solution that is interoperable and scalable regardless of manufacturer. Epiroc has now received a significant order for this project, which is reportedly the largest size it has received so far for automation work.

The order, booked in the first quarter 2023, is valued at approximately MAUD 70 (US$46 million). This covers a portion of the 96 haul trucks that ultimately will be converted. The project is expected to run until 2024.

“We are very excited about supporting Roy Hill in the work to create the world’s largest single autonomous mine,” says Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s President and CEO. “The benefits for both safety and productivity will be substantial.”

The project’s progressive expansion will see autonomous haul truck numbers grow steadily from March 2023 and throughout 2023. The fleet will ultimately comprise 54 Caterpillar trucks and 42 Hitachi trucks. In addition, more than 200 modified ancillary vehicles will interact with the autonomous haul trucks.