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A copper mine in Zambia has become the site of a genuine global first, with First Quantum Minerals (FQM) and Hitachi Construction Machinery commissioning the world’s first ultra large battery-electric mining truck at the Kansanshi copper and gold operation, a milestone that positions Zambia at the leading edge of sustainable mining technology.
The all-electric Hitachi EH4000 truck, which integrates advanced battery technology with trolley-assist systems, was commissioned on 16 April 2026. For First Quantum, the achievement is the product of years of research, development and a partnership with Hitachi that stretches back to 2012 when the two companies first introduced trolley-enabled systems at Kansanshi.
FQM CEO Tristan Pascall set the tone at the commissioning event, “We are standing at an event where Zambia is right at the forefront of renewable energy and low-emissions technology. Today is about what can be achieved when a mining company, a technology partner and government work together to move the industry forward. Innovation is not simple but it is significant. The battery-electric truck we are commissioning today has been years in the making, involving extensive research, development and close cooperation,” said Pascall.
He noted that the innovation makes commercial as well as environmental sense, leveraging Zambia’s abundant hydroelectric power which accounts for up to 85% of the national grid to deliver real decarbonisation across scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions rather than simply headline commitments. “Through new technology, we are creating opportunities for our Zambian employees to lead in battery electric and trolley-assist systems, expertise that is currently unique in the world,” added Pascall.
Hitachi Mining Business Unit’s Vice President Ray Kitic echoed that emphasis on substance over optics. “We value the depth of FQM’s commitment to decarbonisation, not just for headlines but for real impact on operations, Zambia and society at large. Zambia’s high proportion of hydroelectric power makes it an ideal location to demonstrate true decarbonisation. Our guiding principles for this project have been focused on the solution being safe, practical, durable and commercially viable,” noted Kitic.
Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Hapenga Kabeta praised the partnership as emblematic of the kind of investment Zambia is actively cultivating. “Environmental stewardship is essential if we are to protect the planet from the rising impacts of climate change. Such strategic partnerships represent the future of responsible and sustainable mining. This collaboration is not accidental but is part of the very DNA of FQM. The initiative ticks all the boxes, caring for the planet, embracing technology and acting as a good corporate citizen,” said Kabeta.
He concluded by drawing attention to FQM’s domestic employment record, approximately 96% of the company’s Zambian workforce are Zambian citizens including in senior management roles and said the commissioning demonstrated that cutting-edge technological investment is achievable in a stable, predictable and stakeholder-driven business environment. For the global mining industry watching from afar, the Kansanshi commissioning shows that the decarbonisation of heavy haulage is no longer theoretical. It is operational, it is commercially viable and it happened first in Zambia.
