Epiroc’s large-capacity underground mine truck has electric drivetrain, upgraded diesel engine

The new Minetruck MT66 S eDrive is the first of Epiroc's large-capacity mine trucks to feature their latest generation electric drivetrain. Along with an upgraded and powerful diesel engine, the hauler combines the cost-effectiveness of a traditional mine truck with the productivity of an electric one, says the company, without requiring change to a mine's infrastructure.

"Minetruck MT66 S eDrive has been built from scratch with room for an additional tonne in the box, making it the largest capacity underground mine truck on the market. By combining power with innovation, it really is the best of two worlds," says Wayne Symes, president at Epiroc's Underground division.

A complete redesign for weight reduction and higher speed

The Minetruck MT66 S eDrive has been completely redesigned to feature an electric drivetrain, powered by the strongest engine yet in Epiroc's line-up of underground mine trucks. According to the company, weight reduction and better utilization of the engine's sweet spot results in up to 11 percent higher ramp speed compared to current models.

The Minetruck MT66 S eDrive enables both higher maximum payload and increased speed compared to other high-capacity mine trucks, says Epiroc, and it also reduces fuel consumption by up to seven percent due to the electric drivetrain. The removal of mechanical parts also lowers maintenance costs, promising reduced total cost of ownership.

"In a typical mining application, the increased payload capacity means that the Minetruck MT66 S eDrive can add an additional cycle each day compared to a 65-ton mine truck," says Martin Wallman, global portfolio manager underground trucks at Epiroc's Underground division. "That means well over 23,000 additional tons annually for our customers' productivity."

The Minetruck MT66 S eDrive is being displayed at MINExpo International in Las Vegas, September 24-26. After the show, field trials will be conducted together with Gold Fields Australia, starting in Q2 2025.