Rio Tinto taps CATL to accelerate mining electrification

Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO) has signed a memorandum of understanding with CATL, the world’s largest lithium-ion battery manufacturer, to accelerate the electrification of its mining operations and enhance battery material recycling.

The agreement, signed on March 3 and announced on March 5, commits both companies to strengthening collaboration across electrification innovation, supply chain resilience, and circular economy initiatives.

The partnership is a key component of Rio Tinto's strategy to reduce its operational carbon emissions and follows a similar agreement established between rival BHP Group (ASX:BHP) and CATL in July 2025.

At the time of reporting, Rio Tinto’s share price was $164.58.