This system will be tested at the Radomiro Tomic Division using three diesel-electric haul trucks in its fleet. Preliminary estimates indicate that these machines could reduce emissions by 60% to 70%, in addition to extending the lifespan of their engines.
Santiago, October 2, 2025.- Codelco announced plans to test the Cat® Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system with its fleet of diesel-electric haul trucks at the Radomiro Tomic Division. This initiative is part of the company's commitment to decarbonization and sustainability, seeking to reduce its carbon footprint through the use of innovative technologies and electrification solutions.
The Cat® DET system is comprised of several integrated components: a power transfer module that converts power from the site's electrical source to the required voltage, an electrified rail system to transmit the power, and a machine-connection system to transfer power to the truck's drivetrain. This system transfers electricity directly to the machines while they are in motion, including both current and future battery-electric trucks. By utilizing Cat DET, the site will consume less fuel, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and extend the life of the trucks' engines.
“We are steadily advancing toward the mining of the future,” says Felipe Lagno, Codelco’s Corporate Manager of Innovation and Technology, who explains that, according to preliminary calculations, truck emissions could be reduced by between 60% and 70%. “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,” he adds.
“This pilot program 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 Marc Cameron, senior vice president, Caterpillar. “Together, we are not only transforming the way fleets operate on-site, but also paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.”
The pilot is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026 in open-pit operations. The test, expected to last approximately one year, will involve Cat® 798 AC trucks and the installation of rails on one of the ramps where the machines operate.
Cat dealer Finning SA will also contribute to the success of the trial by assisting with the installation and maintenance of the Cat DET system.
“For Finning, this industrial trial—made possible thanks to the strategic alliance that Codelco has consolidated with us over the years—represents a significant opportunity to advance the integration of cutting-edge technologies in mining. It marks a milestone in driving innovation through sustainable practices and reinforces our commitment to environmental stewardship, 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 goal 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 byproducts, which it then markets to customers worldwide.
Since its nationalization in 1971, Codelco has contributed a total of US$158 billion to the Chilean State (adjusted to 2023 values).
The company operates 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 2024 sales and revenue of $64.8 billion, 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, supported by its global dealer network, deliver exceptional value that helps its customers succeed.
Caterpillar operates on all continents, primarily through three core segments: Construction Industries, Resources & Energy Industries, and Transportation, and offers financial and related services through its Financial Products segment.
About Finning SA
Finning is the world's largest Caterpillar dealer, providing unparalleled service to its customers for over 90 years. Headquartered in Surrey, British Columbia, it provides Caterpillar equipment, parts, service, and performance solutions in Western Canada, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
Codelco