BHP has launched Australia’s first purpose-built battery-electric locomotives (BELs) at its Port Hedland operations in Western Australia.
The two fully battery-powered locomotives will be trialled on BHP’s iron ore rail routes between its Pilbara mines and Port Hedland operations.
The two BELs were delivered in partnership with Wabtec and are purpose-built to withstand the region’s extreme heat and demanding conditions.
Each locomotive features a seven megawatt-hour battery system and regenerative braking technology, which captures energy during downhill braking and feeds it back to the battery to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
The BELs will undergo track trials to test the technology in real-world conditions.
BHP Western Australia Iron Ore Asset President, Tim Day, said: “It’s incredible to see these battery-electric locos in Port Hedland – the first new models in Australia, and representing years of planning, problem solving and partnership.
“It marks the beginning of an important trial to understand how this technology can help us reduce diesel use, lower associated operational greenhouse gas emissions and improve efficiency across our rail network.”
Wabtec’s regional senior vice president for ANZ & SEA Peter Thomas said the arrival of the two BELs is a significant milestone for heavy-rail innovation in the Pilbara.
“Wabtec is proud to partner with BHP on this important step toward decarbonising rail operations.
“These FLXDrive locomotives are purpose-built to perform in one of the world’s most demanding environments, combining advanced battery technology and regenerative braking to deliver high efficiency and lower emissions,” Thomas said.
