A joint collaboration towards fossil free mining

We believe that collaborations drive value creation. A great example is the collaboration between Epiroc, Boliden and ABB, to develop an electric trolley truck system for underground mining. With this, the companies take yet another step on Boliden’s journey towards fossil free mining.

Epiroc, Boliden and ABB will develop and demonstrate an electric trolley truck system on a test track in the Kristineberg mine, Sweden. The electric trolley truck system is a vital component in enabling heavy transportation with electric driven battery vehicles.

This development project will lower CO2 emissions, improve work environment and contribute to Boliden’s vision to be the most climate friendly and respected metal provider in the world. All three partners have clear corporate goals that support more sustainable operations, aiming to help mines improve sustainable production and meet growing metal demand across the world.

The electric trolley assist concept is highly suitable for long haul ramps and builds on Epiroc’s proven Minetruck MT42 Battery. Battery electric vehicles improve operator health and safety, reduces CO2 emissions and lowers total operating costs. The zero-emissions mine truck will be joined by a trolley pantograph, which in turn is connected to an overhead contact power line. ABB's contribution includes design of electric trolley truck systems, definition of standards and vehicle interface, as well as rectifier substation for the test track. The electrical infrastructure is part of the ABB Ability ™ eMine portfolio of integrated portfolio of electrification and digital systems designed to accelerate the decarbonization of the mining sector.

This project is supported by funding from the Swedish innovation agency Vinnova.

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