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Battery electric vehicles in underground mines: Insights from industry

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  • Hooli, Jenni
  • Halim, Adrianus

Abstract

The implementation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in underground mining is relatively recent. BEVs offer several advantages over diesel machines, including enhanced working conditions through reduced noise and heat and the lack of toxic exhaust gases or diesel particulate matter. In addition to reducing greenhouse gases, they have the potential to reduce ventilation and air conditioning costs. Nevertheless, there are certain concerns about BEVs, in areas of productivity, fire safety, economic viability, user-friendliness, and potential electrical-related issues. To address these, two surveys were conducted, one among underground mine management and the other among mine personnel to ascertain their opinions and experiences of BEVs. The results indicated the primary motivators for mines to adopt BEVs were to create a healthier working environment and reduce carbon emissions. The factors hindering the implementation were high costs and the lack of proven reliability. Mine personnel appreciated BEVs for their quietness and reduced fluids and components; however, they had concerns about fire safety and limited battery duration. This study presents the extent of BEV use in underground mining and associated fire incidents and a summary of the survey results.

Suggested Citation

  • Hooli, Jenni & Halim, Adrianus, 2025. "Battery electric vehicles in underground mines: Insights from industry," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 208(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:208:y:2025:i:c:s1364032124007500
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2024.115024
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ediriweera, Amali & Wiewiora, Anna, 2021. "Barriers and enablers of technology adoption in the mining industry," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 73(C).
    2. Zhijian Wang & Shijin Shuai & Zhijie Li & Wenbin Yu, 2021. "A Review of Energy Loss Reduction Technologies for Internal Combustion Engines to Improve Brake Thermal Efficiency," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(20), pages 1-18, October.
    3. Troy R. Hawkins & Bhawna Singh & Guillaume Majeau‐Bettez & Anders Hammer Strømman, 2013. "Comparative Environmental Life Cycle Assessment of Conventional and Electric Vehicles," Journal of Industrial Ecology, Yale University, vol. 17(1), pages 53-64, February.
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