Scania, a global leader in truck automation, has entered into a strategic partnership with Australia’s Fortescue Metals Group to jointly develop and validate an autonomous road train solution for the global mining sector. This cutting-edge project aims to enhance operational efficiency while addressing the specific demands of the mining industry. The collaboration will focus on creating a fully integrated autonomous transport system designed for heavy-haul applications at Fortescue’s Christmas Creek iron ore operations in Queensland, Australia.
The autonomous solution will be developed, tested, and validated at Fortescue’s mining site. This initiative showcases the potential of automation in challenging environments, where the need for efficiency, safety, and productivity is paramount. Scania will leverage its advanced truck automation technology and integrate it with Fortescue’s state-of-the-art Fleet Management System (FMS). Fortescue’s FMS is designed to optimize fleet utilization, ensuring maximum productivity and efficient fuel consumption, both of which are critical in reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
At the heart of the project is the Scania R770 prime mover platform, a high-powered vehicle known for its reliability and durability. This platform will be equipped with Scania’s onboard autonomous hardware and technology, allowing it to operate autonomously in rugged and remote mining environments. The road train will consist of three trailers with a combined weight of 120 tonnes and a payload capacity of 240 tonnes, demonstrating the solution’s ability to handle the massive loads typical in the mining industry.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the evolution of autonomous transportation within the mining sector. Scania’s autonomous trucks are expected to be delivered in late 2026, paving the way for further innovation in mining logistics. The vehicles will be designed to operate autonomously under harsh mining conditions, significantly reducing the need for human intervention while increasing operational efficiency and safety.
Peter Hafmar, Scania’s Head of Autonomous Solutions, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the valuable insights Scania expects to gain from working in such challenging conditions. “This is a great opportunity for Scania to expand our knowledge of autonomous technology in demanding environments alongside an innovative partner like Fortescue,” Hafmar said.
Manfred Streit, Managing Director of Scania Australia, also emphasized the benefits of this collaboration, particularly in the context of reducing the environmental impact of mining. “By combining Scania’s expertise in autonomous driving with our extensive experience in serving the mining industry, the autonomous road train solution will not only increase efficiency but also help to minimize the overall mining footprint,” Streit explained.
Dino Otranto, Chief Executive Officer of Fortescue Metals, expressed similar excitement about the project’s potential. “Our experience in autonomous haulage has allowed us to develop a unique, cost-effective solution that will help unlock high-grade satellite deposits, enabling us to mine more economically. This project will enhance productivity throughout our mining value chain, providing low-cost solutions while improving our operational efficiency,” Otranto commented.
The partnership between Scania and Fortescue represents a major leap in the application of autonomous technology in the mining industry. By developing a fully integrated and automated road train solution, the two companies aim to set new standards for safety, productivity, and sustainability in mining operations globally. With autonomous trucks expected to roll out by 2026, this collaboration could redefine the future of mining logistics and transportation, creating a more efficient and eco-friendly approach to resource extraction.
