Serbia Zijin Copper has achieved a remarkable milestone with the successful trial run of its first fleet of fully-electric haul trucks at the Novo Cerovo mine in Serbia. This advancement is a pivotal move towards realizing Zijin Mining’s ambitious carbon neutrality goals and fostering an environmentally friendly mining operation.

Each of these heavy-duty trucks is engineered to weigh 110 tons, featuring a robust load capacity of 70 tons and a volume of 40 cubic meters. They can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h and have a quick charging time of only 80 minutes, optimizing both efficiency and reliability for mining operations.

Remarkably, under downhill conditions, a fully loaded truck can achieve up to 40 trips on just one charge. The longevity of the trucks is impressive too, with batteries designed to last over six years and produce zero exhaust emissions. This innovation stands in stark contrast to traditional diesel-powered trucks, providing significant environmental and operational advantages.

Although Zijin has not disclosed the specific make and model of the trucks involved in this trial, images of Shaanxi Tonly Heavy Industries TLE105s were included in the press release, hinting at the technology behind this leap forward.

Serbia Zijin Mining operates four copper mines, including Veliki Krivelj, Novo Cerovo, Jama, and the Copper Mine Majdanpek, alongside a limestone mine and a smelter, solidifying its position in the mining sector.

Revolutionizing Mining: Serbia Zijin Copper’s Shift to Electric Haul Trucks

### Introduction

In a significant advancement towards sustainable mining practices, Serbia Zijin Copper has successfully completed a trial run of its first fleet of fully-electric haul trucks at the Novo Cerovo mine. This innovative step aligns with Zijin Mining’s ambitious carbon neutrality goals and marks a transformative moment for environmentally conscious mining operations.

### Specifications of the Electric Haul Trucks

The newly introduced electric haul trucks are designed for robust performance and operational efficiency. Here are the key specifications:

– **Weight:** Each truck weighs **110 tons**.
– **Load Capacity:** They can carry up to **70 tons**.
– **Volume Capacity:** Truck beds can hold **40 cubic meters** of material.
– **Speed:** Capable of reaching speeds of up to **45 km/h**.
– **Charging Time:** A remarkable **charging time of just 80 minutes** allows for rapid turnover during mining operations.

### Performance and Environmental Benefits

One of the standout features of these electric trucks is their operational efficiency. Under downhill conditions, a fully loaded truck can complete up to **40 trips on a single charge**, showcasing their impressive range and performance. Moreover, the trucks are equipped with batteries that have a lifespan exceeding **six years**, and they produce **zero exhaust emissions**, significantly reducing the environmental impact compared to traditional diesel-powered haul trucks.

### Industry Implications and Benefits

The shift to electric haul trucks in mining operations presents numerous benefits, including:

– **Reduction in Carbon Footprint:** By eliminating diesel emissions, these trucks contribute to a greener environment, aligning with global sustainability goals.
– **Lower Operational Costs:** Electric trucks can reduce fuel costs and maintenance expenses over time, leading to substantial savings for mining companies.
– **Enhanced Worker Safety:** With quieter operations and no toxic exhaust, the overall working conditions in mines improve, reducing health risks for workers.

### Market Trends and Predictions

The mining industry is increasingly looking towards electrification and automation as a means to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Predictions suggest that by 2030, a significant portion of mining fleets could transition to electric or hybrid models as technology continues to advance and supply chains adapt to sustainable practices.

### Challenges and Limitations

Despite the advantages, there are challenges to consider:

– **Initial Investment:** The upfront costs for electric trucks and the necessary charging infrastructure can be significant.
– **Battery Technology:** While battery life is promising, continuous advancements are needed to further enhance efficiency and sustainability.

### Conclusion

Serbia Zijin Copper’s trial with electric haul trucks signifies a groundbreaking shift in the mining industry, moving towards sustainable practices while also enhancing operational efficiencies. As the market responds to these changes, the integration of advanced technologies is likely to shape the future landscape of mining.

For more insights into innovative mining practices and technologies, visit Zijin Mining.