Direct from the pit: Fortescue’s testimonial about its Liebherr R 9400 E

In a recent video filmed at the Solomon site, Fortescue and Liebherr-Australia discussed their experiences to date working with the R 9400 E.

Meeting operational expectations

Mark Kouwenhoven, general manager of Fortescue’s Solomon mine, highlighted the performance of the R 9400 E: ‘We have seen the electric excavator deliver the same robust power and productivity as its diesel counterparts but with zero fuel-related emissions, lower operational costs and a reduced environmental footprint.’

Kouwenhoven also shared that the operators on site love using the R 9400 E as it provides a smooth operating experience.

Christopher Shade, decarbonisation coordinator at Solomon mine, emphasised the transformative potential of the machine: ‘The task was to have them be equal to the diesel machines, and they are. It is fantastic, and we cannot wait to have more of these electric excavators added to our growing fleet.’

Hear more from Fortescue about the company’s Liebherr electric excavators and their impact on operations here:

Australia's first electric excavator: The R 9400 E with Fortescue | Liebherr

Looking toward the future

At this year’s MINExpo tradeshow – held in September in Las Vegas, USA – Fortescue and Liebherr announced a significant deal for the development and supply of zero emission equipment. The deal features the supply of 475 zero emission Liebherr machines to Fortescue, 55 of which are R 9400 Es.

Paul Murphy, executive general manager, Future Industries Project for Liebherr-Australia, said, ‘Our work with Fortescue isn’t just about meeting today’s decarbonisation goals; it's about redefining mining’s future. The project exemplifies our commitment to decarbonisation, enabling an industry-wide shift toward cleaner, more efficient operations. It’s a bold step in ensuring that future generations will inherit a mining industry redefined by innovation and responsibility.’