Thank you for your valuable feedback on what is possible and...

Thank you for your valuable feedback on what is possible and what's not and that there are likely to be restrictions meaning going heavier isn't a viable option. Its also useful to understand when someone is potentially over-selling what they are doing/what is possible. The layperson reading of MIN's Automation statement is not having three trucks travel in convoy with the middle one being automated.

What I do have a bit more confidence around, particularly later this decade and into the 2030's is the use of EV technology and automation. Tesla is making massive progress on its automation technology and its Semi trailer is being released commercially later this year. While its a semi-trailer rather than a haul truck, Tesla's Semi has a 500mile (804km) variant with this range applying to a fully loaded configuration and a price point of US$180k. This means that this soon to be available truck (but with a waiting list!!) could do Butcherbird to Port Hedland on one charge. That would make it possible to charge only at Butcherbird and Port Hedland.

Within a few years, there may be sufficient evidence around automation that its possible on selected Australian roads. If that were to also be approved, one option may be (ironically given my earlier post), lighter automated trucks. Charge up and send off the EV truck. Unload, recharge and sent it back. Futuristic - yes, but perhaps even possible later this decade. With a lighter load you would need a bigger fleet but is a possibility.

https://insideevs.com/news/605322/tesla-semi-website-updated-orders-specs/