First Mode will use the former Trans-Alta coal mine, near Centralia, Washington to test its power systems for ultra-class haul trucks.
Following the successful deployment of a proof-of-concept hydrogen-powered haul truck at Anglo-American’s Mogalakwena platinum mine in South Africa in May 2022, First Mode is focused on scaling its U.S. production capabilities to meet the mining industry’s needs worldwide.
The former open-pit mine, which is currently being reclaimed, will enable First Mode to better analyze full mine site infrastructure and operations in a true mining environment. First Mode is leasing the space from TransAlta.
In 2023, First Mode plans to retrofit Komatsu 930E-4 haul trucks with hybrid battery and hydrogen fuel cell powerplants and test them. Eventually, they plan to build the associated infrastructure for battery recharging, hydrogen refueling, and hydrogen production.
