Siemens has launched a new drive system for underground mining vehicles as part of its expanding portfolio of automation and digitalisation solutions for the industry. 

The electric drive system comprises Siemens propulsion and auxiliary inverters, control hard and software, as well as optional energy storage solutions.

The system also has a PEM Motor, which is connected to the wheels with a planetary type gearbox, and is suitable for tough mining conditions.

All these components work together and allow the haul truck's braking energy to be harnessed and stored for electric propulsion.

"Our new powertrain enables higher haul truck productivity to transport more tonnes raw material per energy unit."

Siemens Mobile Mining business manager Daniel Robertson said: "To mine raw material, which is situated much deeper below the surface, the current trend is shifting from surface mining to underground mining, thus requiring market-specific solutions that not only ensure a high yield of return on investment, but also ensures added safety for the health of miners.

"Our new powertrain offers a greater power to ground ratio, thus providing higher haul truck productivity to transport more tonnes raw material per energy unit."

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Using this technology, mine owners and operators will be able to shift from a pure diesel-mechanic to a diesel-electric configuration and can reduce ventilation costs for mining.

Siemens said that this conversion will serve as a stop-gap solution before using fully electric vehicles in underground mining in the near-future.

At present, the company is developing the drive system on a 60t articulated underground haul truck application.

More than 1,000 mining-duty powertrain systems such as all-electric excavators and various haul truck applications are used worldwide in the open-pit market.