July 16, 2024 -- Vale, in collaboration with Komatsu and Cummins, has announced the development of Dual Fuel haul trucks, utilizing a mix of ethanol and diesel. This pioneering initiative aims to reduce direct CO2 emissions by up to 70% compared to diesel engines.

The agreement marks the launch of the Dual Fuel Program, which seeks to convert the existing diesel engines of large trucks to a mixture of ethanol and diesel, promoting a more sustainable alternative. The trucks, with capacities between 230 and 290 tons, will be the first in the world to operate with ethanol, reinforcing the companies' commitment to sustainability in mining. 

Impact on decarbonization goals 

This collaboration is crucial for Vale to achieve its environmental targets, which include a 33% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and complete neutrality by 2050. The conversion of engines to use ethanol, a fuel widely used in Brazil, represents a significant step in reducing CO2 emissions in mining operations. 

"Removing diesel from our operations is crucial for our decarbonization goals," stated José Baltazar, Vale's Director of Engineering for Mine and Plant Operations. Benjamin Stear, Komatsu's Director of Engineering, Design, and Technology, added that this partnership will be essential in meeting collective carbon reduction objectives. 

Implementation and testing 

Over the next two years, the project will involve the development, testing, and implementation of the new engines, which will be manufactured by Cummins. Luke Mosier, Cummins' Mining Product Planning and Strategy Manager, emphasized the importance of the partnership with Vale and Komatsu, highlighting its contribution to innovation and carbon footprint reduction.

Competitive advantage

The choice of ethanol is justified by its widespread adoption in Brazil and the established supply network. Ludmila Nascimento, Vale's Director of Energy and Decarbonization, noted that the partnership will not only reduce emissions but also strengthen the biofuel industry in Brazil.

About Vale  

Vale is a global mining company that exists to improve lives and transform the future together. One of the world's largest producers of iron ore and nickel and a major copper producer, Vale is headquartered in Brazil and operates around the world.

Its operations comprise integrated logistics systems, including approximately 2,000 kilometres of railways, marine terminals and 10 ports distributed around the globe. Vale has the ambition to be recognized by society as a benchmark in safety, the best-in-class reliable operator, a talent-driven organization, a leader in sustainable mining, and a benchmark in creating and sharing value.