Hindustan Zinc Signs MoU with Sandvik AB to Introduce BEVs in Underground Mining

Udaipur, India – Hindustan Zinc has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sandvik AB to introduce battery-powered loaders and trucks in underground mining, in a pioneering move to decarbonize Indian mining. Hindustan Zinc, India’s only and one of the world’s leading integrated zinc-lead-silver producers, is set to introduce Sandvik’s battery electric TH550B trucks and LH518B loaders into their underground mines to reduce carbon emissions and make mine operations more environmentally friendly, taking them a step closer to achieving carbon neutrality. Electric scooters for security personnel, passenger EVs at locations, underground service EVs for mines, and electric forklifts for goods transportation have all recently been added to the company’s fleet of electric vehicles. All of these vehicles are in addition to the MoUs that Hindustan Zinc has signed with Epiroc Rock Drills AB and Normet Group Oy to introduce BEVs in underground mining operations.

Hindustan Zinc is a pioneer in the application of transformative and environmentally friendly mining technology. This partnership underscores Hindustan Zinc’s focus on driving the green economy by reiterating its commitment to environmental solutions. It will help Hindustan Zinc achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of zero noise pollution, zero environmental harm, and zero carbon emissions. Around the world, industrial activities are rapidly shifting toward long-term partnerships that bring business efficiency and expertise. To be successful, any partnership must share the same values, and while expanding their operations, Hindustan Zinc and Sandvik share the values of safety, sustainability, innovation, and technology.

Hindustan Zinc’s core business philosophy includes sustainability across all operations. As a COP 26 Business Leader, the company has consistently adopted innovative mining solutions and smart technology. In 2021, the company is ranked first in Asia-Pacific and fifth globally on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for its efforts to combat climate change.

During the first phase of the collaboration, Hindustan Zinc will deploy two different categories of Sandvik BEV machines in underground mining operations: the TH550B truck and the LH518B loader.

Arun Misra, CEO, Hindustan Zinc, said, “Smart, Safe, and Sustainable operations has been a motto for us at Hindustan Zinc, and we believe that it is our responsibility as a leader to be catalysts for change in the adoption of sustainability-driven business solutions. We have been investing in the development of processes that are well-designed to incorporate sustainable aspects as well in day-to-day business decision-making. This partnership with Sandvik brings us one step closer to our goal of carbon neutrality.”

In a similar vein, Henrik Ager, President, Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, commented, “Aligned with our expansion strategy for battery-electric vehicles, meaning a global reach in 2023, I’m delighted to sign this agreement with Hindustan Zinc to deliver the first battery fleet in India. This is a testament to both the pioneering ambitions of Hindustan Zinc and the technological maturity of Sandvik BEV products.”

To this, Manojit Haldar, Managing Director, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology India, added, “Sandvik is committed to partnering with all its mining customers and driving the agenda of sustainability and decarbonization of their mining operations. Our line of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) includes large-sized haulage equipment and drills for underground mining operations. Through our engineering and innovations, our battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have carbon-neutral drive trains, where this equipment eliminates diesel emissions. This is a huge step towards sustainable mining. We are very proud and happy to be associated with our long-time partner, Hindustan Zinc.”

Image Source: Hindustan Zinc