Fortescue uses KUKA robots to handle 6 MW charging cables for mining trucks

Fortescue is using modified KUKA automotive welding robots to connect massive liquid-cooled cables delivering 6 MW to the 3.2 MWh batteries of its 240-tonne Liebherr T264E electric haul trucks in the Pilbara. The system charges a truck in about 30 minutes and was supported by a $10 million (AUD) ARENA grant.

• KUKA robots handle the liquid-cooled 6 MW charging cables instead of humans
• Liebherr T264E battery holds 3.2 MWh and charges in about 30 minutes
• Project backed by a $10 million (AUD) ARENA grant for a test charger
• Fortescue targets net-zero operations by 2030