First Quantum patents its answer to mining’s diesel habit
The copper miner is protecting trolley technology it says can slash diesel use 90% while accelerating battery-electric haulage.
Canadian mining giant First Quantum Minerals has secured a UK patent and trademark for its trolley-assist technology, aimed at reducing diesel use in mining operations. The technology, known as Quantum Electra-Haul, allows mine trucks equipped with pantographs to connect to overhead electrical lines while ascending rugged terrain, cutting fuel consumption dramatically.
During 2025, the system saved approximately 45,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions at First Quantum's Zambian mines by replacing diesel with renewable electricity. The company estimates that, combined with other initiatives, the technology avoided over 130,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions that year. First Quantum has spent more than 14 years developing and operating trolley-assist systems, with nearly 500,000 km of trolley-assisted haulage recorded across its mines in 2025.
The patent, granted by the UK Intellectual Property Office this summer, covers the system's hardware and installation. First Quantum plans to expand its trolley-assist infrastructure across its three largest operations, with the ultimate goal of electrifying up to 100% of uphill haul cycles.
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