Aussie firms deliver BEV solutions for underground mining use

A new agreement between two innovative Australian manufacturing and technology companies is set  to deliver a range of new battery electric vehicle (BEV) solutions for underground mining applications. 

The collaboration will see the installation of the latest world-class battery-electric vehicle technology designed by Ampcontrol into new PPK Mining Equipment (PPKME) personnel carrier vehicles. The companies  will work together to also retrofit diesel drive trains in a range of other vehicles manufactured by PPKME, including the COALTRAM flameproof and explosion protected diesel Load Haul Dump utility vehicle. 

“This is a fantastic opportunity to combine our  respective industry expertise to introduce the first new Australian designed and built battery-electric  personnel carrier vehicle for the underground coal industry. Expanding our relationship to install  Ampcontrol BEV technology into our COALTRAM utility vehicles will substantially benefit our customers  and employees by developing new vehicles for all underground mines,” said PPKME Global Head of Mining Dale McNamara.

Ampcontrol BEV technology builds upon the company’s expertise and industry reputation, centred  around developing engineering solutions for use in hazardous environments, including underground coal mines. 

“We are thrilled to be working with the team at PPK Mining Equipment to power their fleet of industry renowned underground vehicles. Our new BEV technology lets our partners and customers power their  existing equipment, converting from diesel to battery-electric energy, and new vehicles under  development with a solution where safety and efficiency are absolutely paramount,” said Ampcontrol  Managing Director and CEO Rod Henderson.

PPK Group Ltd Executive Chairman Robin Levison, who commented on further potential opportunities added, “Given the proximity of Ampcontrol and PPKME workshops within the Hunter region of  New South Wales (NSW), the geographical spread of customers and distinct areas of expertise, I see this unique ‘electrification project’ as the first step on a broader collaboration opportunity between Ampcontrol, PPK Group and our subsidiary company LIS Energy Ltd. LIS Energy continues to commercialise its proprietary lithium sulphur battery technology through its joint venture research agreement with Deakin University; we are very enthusiastic about the potential future opportunities this project could present.” 

“We are looking forward to developing a strong association between PPKME and Ampcontrol,  combining our engineering expertise, advanced technology solutions, and world-class manufacturing  to deliver the future in battery electric vehicles for our industry,” said Henderson.