The mining industry is undergoing a significant transformation as companies begin to adopt battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional diesel-powered equipment. These electric machines reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improve underground air quality, and lower ventilation costs, making them particularly beneficial for underground mining operations. As the industry shifts towards electrification, BEVs are playing a key role in shaping the future of mining.
Advancements in BEVs
- Longer running times
- Faster charging solutions
- Improved durability and reduced maintenance costs
These advancements have made BEVs a more viable option for mining companies, offering a range of benefits, including:
• Longer running times: BEVs can operate for up to 12 hours on a single charge, reducing the need for frequent refueling. • Faster charging solutions: The latest BEVs feature faster charging technology, allowing operators to recharge batteries in a matter of hours, rather than days. • Improved durability and reduced maintenance costs: Electric motors are less prone to wear and tear, reducing maintenance costs and increasing the lifespan of equipment.
BeVolution
The MacLean fleet solution “BEVolution” continues to grow as companies adopt BEV technology. With the delivery of MacLean BEV fleets to Agnico Eagle’s Odyssey mine, Torex’s Media Luna project, and Glencore Onaping Depth project, MacLean will soon surpass the milestone of more than 100 battery electric units commissioned, with well over 500,000 hours of operating time accumulated since the launch of the company’s Fleet Electrification Program in 2015.
Electrification Milestones
| Company | Project/ Mine | Milestones |
| MacLean | Agnico Eagle’s Odyssey mine | 100+ battery electric units commissioned |
| MacLean | Torex’s Media Luna project | 50+ battery electric units commissioned |
| MacLean | Glencore Onaping Depth project | 40+ battery electric units commissioned |
Epiroc’s Scooptram ST18 SG
Epiroc’s Scooptram ST18 SG, the battery-powered loader built for demanding underground applications, is making its debut on Canadian soil in 2025 with two rigs set to arrive to customer sites in early June. The machine is ideal for larger mining operations, such as block caving or stoping and is automation-ready, adding another layer of worker safety to underground operations.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 540 KwH nominal | 1,300 tonnes on a single battery charge |
Cat 793 XE Early Learner
The next generation of Caterpillar’s battery electric mining trucks are now at select customer sites for testing and validation. Caterpillar built and tested seven Cat 793 XE Early Learner battery electric trucks at its Tucson Proving Ground facility in Green Valley, Arizona. It is the second development phase of the company’s Early Learner program following the successful demonstration of the battery electric 793 prototype in 2022.
Early Learner Program
- Caterpillar built and tested seven Cat 793 XE Early Learner battery electric trucks
- Second development phase of the company’s Early Learner program
- Successful demonstration of the battery electric 793 prototype in 2022
Sandvik’s Toro LH518iB
The Toro LH518iB is Sandvik’s next-generation battery-electric loader, designed to enhance productivity and safety in underground mining operations. With an 18-tonne payload capacity, it fits into 4.5 x 4.5-metre tunnels, offering high acceleration and fast ramp speeds owing to its advanced electric driveline.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 18-tonne payload | Fits into 4.5 x 4.5-metre tunnels |
Aramine’s L440B LHDs
The first L440B LHDs are now reaching customers, marking a major milestone for Aramine’s battery-powered solutions. With a 4.6-tonne capacity, this groundbreaking loader eliminates the need for costly charging infrastructure, thanks to its integrated charger and ultra-fast battery swap system.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 4.6-tonne | Integrated charger and ultra-fast battery swap system |
Kovatera’s KT300e
Kovatera’s purpose-built BEV, is designed from the ground up using advanced technology and proven components — never adapted or converted — ensuring superior durability and performance. Its heavy-duty 13,000-Ib frame, high-capacity braking resistor, and dedicated cooling system allow it to thrive in demanding underground conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | Heavy-duty 13,000-Ib frame | Dedicated cooling system |
Rokion’s R710
Rokion is proud to introduce the R710, the latest in their line of battery powered utility equipment. Manufactured in Canada, the R710 is available with multiple custom front-end options, including a roof bolter and 10,000-Ib forklift configuration. If you are looking for a zero-emission alternative to your internal combustion equipment, then the R710 is the product for you.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | Multiple custom front-end options | Zero-emission alternative to internal combustion equipment |
Komatsu’s 930E Power Agnostic Series
When it is time to transition to more sustainable power, Komatsu’s 930E Power Agnostic Series makes it simple. Its power-agnostic design offers the potential to integrate a wide range of current and future energy sources, giving you control over emissions and operational efficiency. Choose the power solution that fits your needs to help manage your carbon footprint while minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | Power-agnostic design | Wide range of current and future energy sources |
Conclusion
The mining industry is undergoing a significant transformation as companies begin to adopt battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional diesel-powered equipment. BEVs are playing a key role in shaping the future of mining, with their advancements in longer running times, faster charging solutions, and improved durability and reduced maintenance costs. As companies continue to adopt BEV technology, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future. Electrifying the mining industry is a step in the right direction towards a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly future.
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