BHP, Rio Tinto and Caterpillar are testing two Cat 793 XE Early Learner battery-electric haul trucks at Jimblebar in Western Australia. Caterpillar’s June update followed three months of mine-site testing and reported more than 100 operating hours and over 200 test laps.
The trial is assessing technical readiness, charging infrastructure and commercial feasibility. Caterpillar says a subsequent phase would evaluate charging while trucks are moving.
The work remains a demonstration programme intended to establish requirements for broader deployment. Trial results and proposed future phases should be distinguished from a commercial fleet rollout.
This brief is based on Caterpillar’s announcement of June 23, 2026. Company statements and forecasts are attributed to their source. This is a summary of the announcement, prepared by Mining Brief, rather than independent on-site reporting.
