A major open-pit mine in Inner Mongolia, has taken a significant step toward sustainable mining practices by adopting XCMG’s unmanned solutions. 

The mine’s deployment of ZNK95 electric autonomous mining trucks is projected to reduce environmental impact, cutting diesel consumption by 47,000 tons and lowering carbon emissions by 149,000 tons by 2026, when the fleet is expected to scale up to 300 units.

At the forefront of this technological shift is the ZNK95 Intelligent Mining Dump Truck, which the company claims to be the largest electric autonomous model offered in the mining sector, with a load capacity of 85 tons.

The truck’s cab-less design allows it to operate efficiently in extreme environments, such as high altitudes and frigid temperatures. 

Equipped with a specialised permanent magnet synchronous electric drive system, the ZNK95 is engineered to meet the heavy load and steep gradient demands of mining operations while maintaining peak energy efficiency.

The ZNK95’s advanced system that integrates vehicle, cloud, and network technologies. 

This enables the truck to transition seamlessly between operational modes. 

When high precision is needed, the short-distance remote control mode allows for detailed maneuvering during loading and maintenance. 

Long-distance, remote operation provides operators with full control while keeping them removed from potentially hazardous areas. 

The truck’s fully autonomous mode leverages intelligent sensors and control systems to independently navigate mining routes, execute tasks and avoid obstacles. 

This allows optimal performance across a range of mining operations, with productivity levels surpassing those of driver-operated vehicles.

XCMG says this new approach to mining reflects years of research and technological refinement that has created sustainable, high-performing mining operations. 

The implementation of electric mining trucks at the Inner Mongolia open-pit mine highlights a significant shift in industry practices, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can coexist, claims the company.