MasterMined Innovation is progressing the development of a new class of mine-spec haulage vehicles, which Founder and CEO Tony Sprague says is aimed at providing safer, lower-cost, and more productive alternatives to conventional underground trucks.
The model is a second-generation Volvo FH mine truck, developed in collaboration with Volvo Trucks, Volvo Group Australia, and other key suppliers. The approach is based on modifying high-volume OEM platforms to suit underground conditions – “delivering step-change improvements in safety, performance, and cost.”
The vehicles are engineered to meet key underground compliance requirements including FOPS/ROPS, MDG15, and are fitted with fail-safe braking systems to ensure reliable stopping performance in demanding underground environments. Operator safety and ergonomics have been prioritised, with features such as suspended seats, full-sized trainer seating, improved visibility, lower cabin noise and vibration, and safer ingress/egress.
It is also fitted with Duratray’s Suspended Dump Body (SDB), whose patented design absorbs shock at the tray level, reducing vibration transfer to the cabin and enhancing operator safety and comfort. It is also lightweight yet heavy-duty – maximising payload while delivering exceptional durability for underground ramp haulage.
Designed for in-mine haulage, ramp decline haulage, and shuttle applications, Sprague says the trucks offer improved fuel efficiency – consuming approximately 30% less fuel per tonne moved than comparable units. This results in a meaningful reduction in diesel particulate emissions, energy use, and operating costs.
With a 4-axle layout and optimised weight distribution, the units exert significantly lower ground pressure – reducing decline ramp deterioration and associated maintenance. The drivetrain includes a heavy-duty rear axle set manufactured at Volvo CE’s Eskilstuna facility, contributing to durability and reliability under mining conditions. Higher power-to-weight ratios enable haul speeds up to 2.5x faster on upgrades compared to traditional underground trucks. Over a full shift, a 40 t unit can achieve similar or greater productivity than a 60 t conventional truck.
Validation testing has been conducted across a range of applications, “with consistently positive feedback from mine operators regarding performance, maintainability, and operator experience.” Sprague adds that MasterMined has deep technical knowledge and practical experience with this haulage solution. “We can support productivity simulations, cost-benefit assessments, pilots, site trials, operational readiness planning, and change management activities to help ensure successful deployment.”
The development of this truck was first initiated by Newcrest and Greatland Gold, who identified its potential across a range of underground applications. Newmont has since continued the development, helping to validate its value as a safer, lower-cost, and more productive haulage solution. The collaboration is now seeking additional Australian mining partners to support site trials and help establish this as a widely adopted approach for next-generation underground mine haulage.