The new Minetruck MT66 S eDrive is the first of Epiroc’s large-capacity mine trucks to feature the 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 – without requiring change to a mine’s infrastructure.
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. With several other upgrades, such as weight reduction and better utilisation of the engine’s sweet spot, the truck can reach up to 11% higher ramp speed compared to current models.
“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.
Epiroc adds that while the Minetruck MT66 S eDrive enables both higher maximum payload and increased speed compared to other high-capacity mine trucks, it also reduces fuel consumption by up to 7% thanks to the electric drivetrain. The removal of mechanical parts also lowers maintenance costs, promising reduced total cost of ownership. All in all, with all these improvements on board, it says the Minetruck MT66 S eDrive offers an easy step to improve productivity quickly.
“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 t mine truck. That means well over 23,000 additional tonnes annually for our customers’ productivity,” says Martin Wallman, Global Portfolio Manager Underground Trucks at Epiroc’s Underground division.
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.