Fortescue introduces the inaugural operational electric excavator

Liebherr-Australia recently initiated the deployment of an R 9400 E electric excavator for Fortescue at the Cloudbreak mine site in Western Australia. This excavator is part of the initial three-unit order scheduled for delivery to Fortescue within the next 12 months. The electric excavators from Liebherr offer a zero-emission mining solution, contingent on the energy source of the site's electricity grid. In December 2023, Liebherr-Australia commissioned a 400-tonne R 9400 E electric excavator for Fortescue at the Cloudbreak iron ore mining operation in Western Australia. This marks the debut of a newly constructed operational electric excavator in the country. The R 9400 E backhoe excavator is equipped with a Liebherr cable reeler, enhancing maneuverability and safety optimization on the site.
          A significant milestone in Fortescue's decarbonization journey has been achieved with the operational debut of Australia's first newly constructed electric excavator at the Cloudbreak mine site. Powered by a 6.6kV substation and supported by over two kilometers of high-voltage trailing cable, this marks the initiation of Liebherr's delivery of three R 9400 E electric excavators to Fortescue over the next 12 months. Equipped with the Liebherr cable reeler, the R 9400 E features an automated and hydraulically driven solution for managing the excavator's electric cable during operation. This innovative system enhances the machine's mobility, optimizes safety, and reduces the personnel required for cable handling.