Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer System Warrants Test Run in Chilean Mine

Codelco said it will test Caterpillar’s Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system with its fleet of diesel-electric haul trucks at the Radomiro Tomic Division.

This test will help determine if DET can help the mining company reduce its carbon footprint through the use of innovative technologies and electrification solutions. It is designed to show that use of DET will enable the site to consume less fuel, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and extend truck engine life.

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Codelco operates seven copper mines in Chile: Chuquicamata, Ministro Hales, Radomiro Tomic, Gabriela Mistral, Salvador, Andina, and El Teniente. 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.

The 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.

“We are steadily advancing toward the mining of the future,” says Felipe Lagno, Codelco’s corporate manager of innovation and technology,” in a statement. 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,” he said.

Said Marc Cameron, SVP, Caterpillar, in a statement:

“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. Together, we are not only transforming the way fleets operate on-site, but also paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.”

Cat dealer Finning SA will assist 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,” said Juan Pablo Amar, president of Finning, in a statement. “It marks a milestone in driving innovation through sustainable practices and reinforces our commitment to environmental stewardship, with a view to the future.”