(Kitco News) - >"The technology is coming - whether we like it or not. ":
Iron ore giant BHP Billiton plans to spend just under US$800 million to add about 500 autonomous trucks to its fleet. The plan, which is still in the feasiblity stage, was announced at a mid-month investor presentation. If BHP goes ahead, the rollout will occur over the next three years, and the new trucks will be deployed at Western Australia iron ore and Queensland coal sites. BHP said the new technology has to be embraced, and resisting change is "no longer an option."