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Battery Electric Vehicles in Underground Mining: Benefits, Challenges, and Safety Considerations

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Listed:
  • Epp Kuslap

    (Department of Geology, Tallinn University of Technology, Ehitajate Tee 5, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia)

  • Jiajie Li

    (Key Laboratory of Efficient Mining and Safety of Metal Mines, Ministry of Education, School of Resource and Safety Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China)

  • Aibaota Talehatibieke

    (Key Laboratory of Efficient Mining and Safety of Metal Mines, Ministry of Education, School of Resource and Safety Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China)

  • Michael Hitch

    (Faculty of Science, University of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, BC V2S 7M8, Canada)

Abstract

This paper explores the implementation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in underground mining operations, focusing on their benefits, challenges, and safety considerations. The study examines the shift from traditional diesel-powered machinery to BEVs in response to increasing environmental concerns and stricter emission regulations. It discusses various lithium-ion battery chemistries used in BEVs, particularly lithium–iron–phosphate (LFP) and nickel–manganese–cobalt (NMC), comparing their performance, safety, and suitability for underground mining applications. The research highlights the significant benefits of BEVs, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality in confined spaces, and potential ventilation cost savings. However, it also addresses critical safety concerns, such as fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the emission of toxic gases during thermal runaway events. The manuscript emphasises the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation strategies when introducing BEVs to underground mining environments. It concludes that while BEVs offer promising solutions for more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining operations, further research is needed to ensure their safe integration into underground mining practices. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discussion on the future of mining technology and its environmental impact.

Suggested Citation

  • Epp Kuslap & Jiajie Li & Aibaota Talehatibieke & Michael Hitch, 2025. "Battery Electric Vehicles in Underground Mining: Benefits, Challenges, and Safety Considerations," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(14), pages 1-13, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:14:p:3588-:d:1696703
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Christoph Buchal & Hans-Dieter Karl & Hans-Werner Sinn, 2019. "Kohlemotoren, Windmotoren und Dieselmotoren: Was zeigt die CO2-Bilanz?," ifo Schnelldienst, ifo Institute - Leibniz Institute for Economic Research at the University of Munich, vol. 72(08), pages 40-54, April.
    2. Hooli, Jenni & Halim, Adrianus, 2025. "Battery electric vehicles in underground mines: Insights from industry," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 208(C).
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