At MINExpo, Joy Global unveiled its brand new 22HD Joy Hybrid Diesel LHD. The latest machine in the company’s new class of underground hard rock LHD products – which also includes the Joy 18HD – the 22HD features proprietary Joy SR Hybrid Drive technology. This technology was first introduced into the LeTourneau wheel loaders back in the 1990s. That line of machines was subsequently purchased by Joy.

The 18HD and 22HD are the first LHDs in the world equipped with an all-electric, smart driveline. They also feature the new KESS or Kinetic Energy Storage System from Joy Global, to enable the storage and reuse of braking energy, reducing overall fuel consumption by 30%. KESS supplements engine power by more than 50% to improve machine acceleration, reduce the effects of engine turbo lag and dramatically improve cycle times, Joy says.

With a focus on reliability, the LHDs’ low-maintenance SR Hybrid driveline is designed for a 20,000+-hour life before rebuild. The machines’ rugged steel frames and ball and socket joints are constructed to withstand challenging hard rock mining applications. A suite of onboard operator tools then helps enhance performance.

To help drive for zero harm, the 18HD and 22HD feature easy-to-use controls and a responsive system to reduce operator fatigue. ROPS/FOPS-certified cabins further protect operators, and the machines’ smaller Tier 3 or Tier 4 Final engines reduce diesel emissions.