LKAB signs technology partnership with ABB to shape the future of mining

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Zurich, Switzerland, October 8, 2025 – ABB and Swedish mining and minerals group LKAB have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to form a strategic technology partnership to shape the future of mining. The agreement establishes a framework for joint cooperation to develop automation, electrification and digitalization with a focus on next-generation energy, production management and robotics solutions across the mining industry.


The partnership will focus on some of the biggest changes in the mining industry’s journey towards fully electric, automated and digital mines that enhance safety, sustainability and productivity. ABB and LKAB will explore advanced energy systems, from smarter power distribution and storage to battery electric vehicle (BEV) charging and battery management. We will also investigate how production is optimized and managed across the value chain, including ventilation, crushing and flotation.


The agreement also opens the door to cooperation on new development possibilities in robotization, such as automatic blast charges and safer and more efficient hoisting solutions, such as hybrid ropes for deeper transport. Representatives from LKAB and ABB will be part of the steering group guiding the cooperation.


“We are entering one of the most significant technological transformations in the history of the mining industry. This partnership with ABB will help accelerate the transformation towards a more sustainable, secure and digital future,” said Jenny Greberg, Vice President of Technology at LKAB. “By combining our mining expertise with ABB’s technological leadership, we aim to establish an industry blueprint for safety, efficiency and green performance.”


“Our latest research shows that 77% of mining leaders believe automation, electrification and digital technologies are essential for the sustainable transformation of mines, and they rely on trusted technology suppliers like ABB to co-develop the solutions they need to meet today’s needs,” said Vedrana Spudik, Head of Mining Technology, Process Industries, ABB. “This partnership will allow us to mature our technology in the mine environment, ensuring we deliver immediate and measurable value to our customers in terms of energy efficiency, productivity and safety.”


The partnership will be led by Jan Moström, CEO of LKAB. Jenny Greberg, LKAB Vice President of Technology. Vedrana Spudic, Head of Mining Technology at ABB. Peter Terwiesch, President of Process Automation at ABB, highlights how collaboration with mining operators and technology providers can accelerate the transition to a safer, more productive and less energy-intensive future.


With this MoU, ABB and LKAB demonstrate their shared commitment to long-term value creation and innovation in the mining industry and the rapid exploration of technologies from pilot stage to large-scale deployment. This framework will not only support LKAB’s transformation, but also set a benchmark for more sustainable mining around the world.

About ABB

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By combining engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries operate at high performance while becoming more efficient, productive, sustainable and performing better. At ABB, we call this “Engineered to Outrun.” The company has been around for more than 140 years and has approximately 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the Swiss SIX Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).

About ABB’s process automation business

ABB’s Process Automation business automates, electrifies and digitizes industrial operations for a wide range of essential needs, from the supply of energy, water and materials to the production and transportation of goods to market. With around 20,000 employees and cutting-edge technology and service expertise, ABB Process Automation helps process, hybrid and maritime industries become more efficient and cleaner.