Rolls-Royce and ASI Mining have agreed to ensure compatibility of MTU engines and ASI's Mobius command and control software for autonomous vehicles. The two partners have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) enabling Rolls-Royce to offer autonomous-compatible, Mobius-ready MTU engine solutions for equipment in a wide range of mining applications.

Scott Woodruff, Global Director for Mining and Oil & Gas, Rolls-Royce Power Systems, said, "We are excited to shape the mining industry's future together with ASI and further leverage our advanced MTU technologies. Together we will offer our customers integrated future-oriented autonomous solutions. This agreement may help mining operators save big on operational costs and at the same time, reduce their environmental footprint by cutting emissions."

Drew Larsen, Director of Business Development, ASI Mining, said, "We are excited to start these discussions with Rolls-Royce Power Systems. This is another testament to the interoperability of Mobius and real value it adds to our mining customers."

One potential benefit to customers of Rolls-Royce and ASI Mining may be the ability to retrofit the power system on existing haul trucks and convert them to autonomous operation. The companies are interested in exploring the value customers would receive by modernising their trucks with more efficient MTU engines along with implementation of ASI's industry-leading autonomous mining solutions.