Summary: Global trends in surface mining equipment focus on electrification, automation, and sustainability.

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-25 09:20:00

Surface mining utilizes specialized equipment like trucks, dozers, and excavators to extract resources cost-effectively from just below the Earth’s surface. Despite environmental challenges, industry advancements aim to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. GlobalData’s report estimates a total of 155,976 machines in active mines in 2024, projected to rise to 170,982 by 2030.

Leading OEMs in surface mining trucks are Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Volvo. Electrification of surface equipment vehicles is a growing trend to reduce emissions and improve efficiency. Sandvik emphasizes automation for productivity and sustainability, while Epiroc notes a shift towards surface electrification, with a recent $220m order for electric drill rigs from Fortescue’s iron ore mines.

The adoption of electrification for surface equipment vehicles is on the rise, with around 30% of surface mining operations having the necessary infrastructure. Caterpillar has heavily invested in electric vehicles, collaborating with customers to develop battery-electric mining trucks. Liebherr highlights the importance of renewable electricity for decarbonization, offering modular mining equipment solutions to adapt to various energy types.

GlobalData reports an increase in autonomous haul trucks at surface mines worldwide, reaching 2,348 by November 2024. This trend reflects the industry’s shift towards automation and electrification for enhanced efficiency and sustainability. The largest population of autonomous surface mining trucks is in Australia, followed by China, Canada, and Chile. These trucks use GPS, radar, and AI to operate without human drivers, increasing efficiency and reducing downtime. Companies like Epiroc and Liebherr are embracing technology to optimize mining equipment and reduce emissions.

Komatsu achieved a milestone by operating an electric drive truck connected to a dynamic trolley line autonomously. This solution aims to reduce carbon emissions, extend engine life, and move towards a zero-emissions future. Trolley trucks have specific criteria for viability, such as significant uphill haulage, but smaller fully battery trucks may become more popular than trolley-assist trucks.

GlobalData is tracking 263 trolley assist trucks and 207 battery-electric trucks at surface mines globally. The largest population of trolley assist trucks is in Zambia, followed by Namibia and South Africa. Main suppliers of trolley assist trucks include Hitachi, Komatsu, and Liebherr, with models like EH3500AC, 960E, and T284 being popular choices.

Liebherr mentions that trolley systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% and can provide complete systems including infrastructure and truck systems. The trend in surface mining equipment is towards hybrid machines, renewable diesel, and potentially hydrogen-powered machines. The industry is evolving towards more sustainable and efficient practices.

Read more: Surface mining: assessing global equipment trends