First Cable-Electric Hydraulic Excavator at a US Iron Mine
On July 23, 2026, Mesabi Metallics became one of the first mines in the United States to operate a cable-electric hydraulic excavator when its new Komatsu PC7000-11 loaded a 400-short ton Komatsu 980E-5 haul truck at the Nashwauk, Minnesota iron ore operation.
Fleet Innovation
The PC7000-11, typically a 650–700 tonne class machine with a 36–40 m³ bucket, represents a new direction for US large-pit mining where electric rope shovels have historically dominated. Mesabi Metallics also operates a Komatsu P&H 2800XPB electric rope shovel — a 100% electrically-powered mining shovel operating on 7,200 volts, built in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- PC7000-11: Cable-electric configuration removes on-board diesel, shifting energy supply to the mine power network
- 980E-5 trucks: 400-short ton haul trucks — a first for Minnesota — part of a US$110 million Komatsu equipment fleet deal
- Autonomous future: Trucks are set to be operated autonomously using Komatsu's FrontRunner system
Production Milestone
On July 13, Mesabi Metallics completed its first production blast — a 66-hole pattern that fractured approximately 211,000 tons of ore in a single shot. This opened the first ramp into the bottom of the pit, clearing the way for the 400-ton haul truck fleet. The mine is targeting first pellet production in Q3 2026.
Strategic Significance
Mesabi Metallics is constructing the first new iron ore mine and pellet plant built in Minnesota in 50 years, on over 16,000 acres in Nashwauk. The facility will produce ~7 million tonnes per year of Direct Reduction grade iron ore pellets, supplying domestic electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmakers. With approximately $2.5 billion already invested, the project represents a once-in-a-generation investment in American industrial capacity.
Environmental Considerations
The cable-electric loading fleet aligns with the US iron ore sector's interest in reducing diesel exposure in large pits. The 980E-5 trucks represent the hybrid strategy where diesel haulage remains the main residual emissions source, making them a logical next target for trolley-assist or future battery truck trials.
