BelAZ is working on a new dump truck that will be battery powered. The machine will feature a payload of 90tonnes and the battery is being supplied by a South Korean firm.
BelAZ has been building diesel-electric haul trucks for many years and in much smaller capacities than competing firms such as Caterpillar, Hitachi and Komatsu. The company has considerable experience with electric drives for haul trucks and many of its previous models have featured innovative designs.
The firm says that offering a battery-powered haul truck will be of benefit for use in countries where diesel fuel prices are particularly high.
BelAZ is in discussions with a number of suppliers of charging systems at present.
Trial operations for the truck are expected to commence at the BelAZ test facility in the third quarter of 2020.
