Japanese heavy equipment manufacturer Komatsu is accelerating its efforts to electrify and decarbonize the mining industry, which has long been reliant on fossil fuels. The company announced a $65 million investment in its U.S.-based subsidiary, American Battery Solutions (ABS), to expand battery production capacity fourfold. By 2026, Komatsu aims to boost annual production from 0.6 gigawatt-hours (GWh) to 2.6 GWh, positioning ABS to fulfill $500 million in orders by 2027.
Since acquiring ABS in 2022, Komatsu has leveraged lithium-ion battery technology to power its electric mining and construction equipment, focusing primarily on the Americas. As mining companies face mounting pressure to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 under International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) guidelines, demand for low-emission equipment continues to grow.
Transitioning to electric-powered mining equipment presents significant challenges, including the weight and durability of heavy batteries and the need for robust charging infrastructure. To address these issues, Komatsu is collaborating with industry leaders like ABB, Vale, and Cummins to explore alternative technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells and ethanol engines.
The mining segment remains a cornerstone of Komatsu’s business, with projected sales of $11 billion for fiscal year 2023—accounting for nearly 40% of the company’s overall revenue. Global demand for mining equipment is expected to rise by 80% by 2036, driven by increased adoption of low-carbon alternatives.
By strategically investing in battery production and forming key partnerships, Komatsu is solidifying its role as a leader in the mining industry’s green transformation. These efforts not only support sustainable resource extraction but also set a new benchmark for innovation and environmental responsibility in heavy equipment manufacturing.
