Vale, Cummins and Komatsu advance joint Dual Fuel Program

In Brazil, Vale announced that its partner Cummins Inc. has started the successful commissioning of a new ethanol fuel test cell, marking a significant milestone in both companies’ joint project with Komatsu to develop an ethanol/diesel-powered surface mining haul truck aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This achievement underscores the three companies’ shared commitment to decarbonizing the mining sector and advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Announced in July 2024, the dual fuel program aims to retrofit existing diesel engines in Komatsu haul trucks to operate on both ethanol and diesel, significantly enhancing sustainability. These modified 230–290-ton haul trucks – the first vehicles of this size to run on ethanol in the tank – will be able to use up to 70% ethanol, potentially lowering CO2 emissions footprint by up to 70%. QSK60 Engine testing is expected to run until 2026 before field tests begin at Komatsu’s facilities.

Vale has set a target of reducing its scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 33% by 2030. Among mine equipment, the haul truck is one of the biggest consumers of diesel and therefore a major emitter of greenhouse gases. The election of ethanol as an alternative to diesel is justified because it is already a widely adopted fuel in Brazil, with an established supply network.