Nittetsu Mining disclosed a policy of converting the 8 large dump trucks operating at its Torigatayama Mine in Kochi Prefecture to autonomous operation by 2033, against a backdrop of labour shortages. The company will initially convert 1–2 trucks to autonomous operation and aims to establish stable operations.
Nittetsu Mining indicated a policy of achieving autonomous operation of large dump trucks by the end of 2023 at its Torigatayama Mine, one of Japan's largest limestone mines, in Niyodogawa, Kochi Prefecture. 8 trucks are currently in operation. As securing workers becomes more difficult, the company aims to establish an operating structure requiring approximately half the current workforce. The future operating model will include deploying additional autonomous vehicles and reviewing staffing arrangements.