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Why Hybrid Haul Truck Retrofits Could Be a Practical Next Step for Canadian Mines

July 14, 2026

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Capturing Energy, Reducing Costs

Rather than waiting for fully electrified fleets to become viable, hybrid retrofits offer a way to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and extend equipment life using the haul trucks already in operation.

According to a recent article in Equipment Journal, Canada's deep open-pit mines are particularly well suited for hybrid haul truck technology. Operations with long downhill or uphill haul routes create frequent braking opportunities, allowing regenerative braking systems to capture energy that would otherwise be lost. That recovered energy is stored in onboard batteries and reused to assist the diesel engine during operation.

For mining companies, the result is more than lower fuel consumption. Hybrid power systems can help reduce operating costs, improve equipment performance and support decarbonization goals without requiring major changes to existing mine infrastructure.

A Flexible Path to Adoption

First Mode, now operating within Cummins, is currently field testing its hybrid retrofit solution on Komatsu 930E-4 haul trucks in Chile and early field trials have demonstrated measurable operational benefits and performance improvements.

The system installs directly onto existing machines, allowing fleets to adopt the technology gradually rather than replacing equipment. For Canadian operations, that flexibility is significant.

"As a retrofit solution, hybrid technology allows customers to start where it makes the most sense for their operation," says Dillon McKinnon, Manager of Mining Equipment Technology at SMS Equipment. "You can begin with retrofitting a single electric-drive truck, expand to several, or scale across the fleet over time."

For many mining operations, the greatest value lies in the ability to make meaningful progress today while preparing for tomorrow's technologies. Hybrid retrofit solutions provide a practical bridge toward lower-emission operations without waiting for fully electrified fleets, charging infrastructure or significant capital investments.

As Canada's mining industry continues to evaluate pathways toward decarbonization, hybrid haul truck technology represents another tool that can help operations balance productivity, sustainability and total cost of ownership.

Read the full article on Equipment Journal to learn more about First Mode's hybrid haul truck technology and insights into its potential for Canadian mining operations.