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Novel Project in the Brazilian Mining Sector Develops V16 Engine That Uses 70% Ethanol and 30% Diesel. With Over 2,800 HP, Initiative by Cummins, Vale, and Komatsu Promises to Reduce CO₂ Emissions by Up to 70%.
An engine with over 2,800 horsepower, powered by a mixture of ethanol and diesel, is being developed for use in mining. The proposal stems from a partnership between Vale, the Japanese manufacturer Komatsu, and the American company Cummins. The focus is clear: transform the operation of heavy vehicles in Brazilian mines.
The proposal for the flexible engine goes far beyond what we know in automobiles. With superlative size and power, it will be used in off-road trucks that transport hundreds of tons in extreme conditions.
How Does the Flexible Engine in Mining Work?
Called QSK60, Cummins’ engine is a V16 with up to 2,889 horsepower and torque of 1,143 kgfm. The current project adapts this configuration to operate with 70% ethanol and 30% diesel.
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The goal is to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, a decisive step toward the decarbonization of the heavy industry.
The flexible version was announced in July 2024, with field testing expected by Komatsu in 2026.
According to Cummins, the new fuel combination can decrease carbon emissions by up to 70%.
Exclusive Project for Operations in Brazil
Although developed at Cummins’ headquarters in Indiana, USA, the engine was designed exclusively for the Brazilian market.
The initiative directly addresses the sustainability needs of domestic mining, especially in Vale operations.
The miner, which has been adopting strict environmental impact reduction goals, sees this project as a technological milestone.
The use of ethanol, an abundant fuel in Brazil, contributes to the policy of promoting renewable sources.
An Engine Outside Conventional Standards
The QSK60 engine weighs 7,794 kg dry, and can reach 9,616 kg with fluids. It will be installed in Komatsu trucks with a maximum operational weight of up to 107,600 kg.
These vehicles reach a maximum speed of only 30 km/h, but are essential for moving tons of ore in rugged terrain.
Unlike passenger car engines, which prioritize speed and lightness, this type of powerplant is designed to withstand, push, and last.
Even at low speed, performance and robustness are crucial in the mining environment.
The Mining Revolution Begins with the Engine
The definition of a flexible engine gains new meaning with Cummins’ project. Focused on sustainability and the safe operation of heavy machinery, the proposal paves the way for cleaner mining in Brazil.
The involvement of giants like Vale and Komatsu adds weight to the project. The expectation is that by 2026, field tests will confirm the viability of the new technology.
With information from the website AutoPao
