First Mode recently partnered with Mitsui & Co. to boost the adoption of low-carbon and zero-emissions solutions in heavy industries, with a focus on mining.

First Mode’s Path to Zero product line, designed for hard-to-abate sectors like mining, features progressive zero-emission solutions. A typical heavy-haul truck in the mining industry burns around 1 million liters of diesel every year and operates for 10 to 15 years. The total global operation of such trucks contributes to 35 million metric tons of carbon dioxide every year, equivalent to the emissions from 8 million passenger cars.

In response to this challenge, First Mode has rolled out the Path to Zero line that includes a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) retrofit. This low-risk solution reduces fuel use and emissions by up to 25% without requiring any infrastructure changes while allowing for future adoption of full battery or hydrogen fuel cell EV drivetrains at operators’ convenience.

Mitsui sees First Mode as a pioneer in green solutions, especially in replacing diesel fuel in the mining sector. The company expressed its eagerness to support First Mode’s growth by utilizing its own capabilities in renewable energy, green hydrogen, hydrogen-derived synthetic fuels, and extensive networks in the clean energy sector.

Working in the mining sector since 2018, First Mode has had successes, including developing the world’s first and largest hydrogen fuel cell electric truck in collaboration with Anglo American’s nuGen zero-emissions technology program. This relationship culminated in First Mode’s Path to Zero diesel hybrid, battery electric, and hydrogen fuel cell drivetrains’ product line launch in 2023, after an investment and supply agreement with Anglo American.

The Path to Zero line’s retrofit approach safeguards heavy industry companies’ haulage investments while helping them transition to zero emissions. No other product line currently offers this sequential retrofit approach, making First Mode unique in the decarbonization landscape.