Ampcontrol and PPK Mining Equipment introduce electric mine vehicle

A new agreement between two 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 BEV 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," said PPKME Global Head of Mining Dale McNamara. "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."

Ampcontrol BEV technology builds upon the company's expertise and industry reputation, centred on 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," added Ampcontrol Managing Director & CEO Rod Henderson. "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."

"Given the proximity of Ampcontrol and PPKME workshops within the Hunter region of 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," said PPK Group Ltd Executive Chairman Robin Levison. "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," Henderson said.