Mineral Resources reaches major milestone for first fully autonomous road trains

Mineral Resources (MinRes) has handed over the first custom off-road triple road train to Hexagon AB for conversion to autonomous operation.

Delivered one month ahead of schedule, the handover represents a significant milestone in the development of a fully autonomous fleet of road trains.

This world-first technology was designed and developed by MinRes and Hexagon for Mineral Resources’ Onslow iron project which is situated in the Pilbara region of WA.

MinRes director of technology and innovation David Geraghty presented the keys to a customised Kenworth C509 prime mover at Hexagon AB’s Perth workshop.

Hexagon AB chief synergy officer autonomous solutions Gordon Dale, executive vice president core autonomy Mike Verheyn and vice president core autonomy engineering John Buszek were in Perth for the milestone.

Mr Geraghty says the autonomous trucks are a milestone for MinRes and the Onslow project.

“This is a significant milestone for Onslow Iron, with autonomous trucks forming an essential part of the project’s supply chain,” he said.

“Automation brings many benefits, including enhancing road safety, increasing operational efficiencies and reducing emissions.”

The road trains will be converted to autonomous operation by Hexagon AB using technology developed by the company’s engineering team. The vehicles will then be tested at MinRes sites by check drivers.

From January 2024, 10 vehicles a month will be converted over the next year to meet Onslow Iron’s requirements. Once deployed, MinRes will have a fleet of 120 fully autonomous road trains.

Each triple trailer road train will carry 330t of iron ore 150km on a private sealed haul road from the Ken’s Bore mine site to the Port of Ashburton.

With safety at the forefront of the design, grade separation ensures there is no interaction between the road trains on the haul road and vehicles using public roads.

Mr Dale says Hexagon AB is excited to begin installing the technology.

“This is a complimentary partnership, with MinRes leading the way in mining services and Hexagon leading the way in autonomous technical capability,” he said.

“We are excited to commence installing the autonomous technology in our Perth workshop, with the aim to complete a fit out of a truck in just two-to-three days.”