The partners aim to develop hybrid powertrains for surface haulage heavy mining equipment
Cummins, global power technology specialists, and Komatsu, global providers of construction and mining equipment and services, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on developing hybrid powertrains for surface haulage heavy mining equipment
Komatsu has also included Wabtec, its drive system supplier, as part of the collaboration, extending its involvement in supplying powertrain solutions and optimisation for the next generation of hybrid mining equipment. Cummins and Komatsu will add hybrids to their product roadmaps of power technology solutions to decarbonise large mining haul truck applications.
The collaboration will utilise both companies' global capabilities to advance optimised hybrid solutions for mining. Retrofit hybrid solutions could aid customers in reaching their decarbonisation goals and lower the costs of operations. Hybrid solutions can save fuel by capturing braking energy while improving productivity with accelerated cycle times.
Gbile Adewunmi, Cummins vice president, Industrial Markets, Power Systems, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Komatsu once again to bring the latest advancements to the mining sector. We have a robust team of Cummins and former First Mode experts dedicated to hybrid development and optimisation, and now collaborating with Komatsu, we can bring miners the flexibility and confidence they need to decarbonise and improve total cost of operations.”
Cummins’ acquisition of First Mode assets in February 2025 introduces critical capabilities and accelerates development efforts, with pilot units set to deploy later this year.
Dan Funcannon, senior vice president, Komatsu Surface Haulage Business Unit, said, “This collaboration with Cummins is an important step in advancing practical decarbonisation solutions. Together, we’re helping bridge current operational needs with future low-carbon goals to support our customers’ sustainability efforts.”
Like Cummins, Komatsu is committed to reducing environmental impact through its business, targeting carbon neutrality from the use of its products and the production of its equipment by 2050.
Molly Puga, first mode general manager, said, “Commercialising hybrid retrofit kits is a key first step. With the pace of development already underway, now accelerated by this collaborative partnership, we’re confident in delivering hybrid products at scale well in advance of 2030. The initial First Mode retrofit kit pilot will go into the market in the coming months, where we expect to see double-digit fuel savings in mining operations."
