This month, SMS Equipment deployed the Komatsu 980E-4AT –  the largest autonomous Komatsu truck in commercial operations in the world – into production in Canada at the oil sands operations of Suncor.  The Komatsu 980E-4AT is modeled after the proven work horse 930E series.  This 400-ton capacity truck has many of the same attributes, such as a simple and reliable hydraulic system design and proven GE drive system.  Fuel efficiency is maximised due to optimised air handling with two stage turbocharging and the truck features a Cummins 3500 HP SSDA18V170 engine.

“The introduction of these 980Es into the AHS environment wouldn’t be possible without our customers and distribution partners. They’re a big reason why Komatsu has the most autonomous systems, in the most mines, hauling the widest variety of materials, in the world,” said Dan Funcannon, GM, Mining Truck Division, Komatsu America. Scott Schellenberg, Senior Manager, AHS at SMS Equipment adds: “The addition of the 980E-4AT 400-ton autonomous truck is a game changer for Komatsu and our customers, delivering even greater value in enhanced mine productivity.”

Mike Brown, EVP Innovation and Advanced Technology, SMS Equipment said: “SMS Equipment continues to offer leading technology solutions for the mining industry by working closely with its OEM partners to deploy and support these technology programs such as autonomous haulage. We have invested heavily in developing an experienced team of autonomous mining specialists capable of supporting our customer’s needs from inception through to implementation and continuous improvement. The rapid increase in proposed autonomous projects will make Canada a global leader in autonomous adoption as Canadian mining companies focus on driving better efficiencies into their operations.”