What's Happening?
Sandvik, a global engineering group, has secured a significant order for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) from Eldorado Gold, a mining company based in Canada. This order, valued at approximately SEK 160 million, is intended for use at Eldorado Gold's Lamaque mine located in Val-d’Or, Québec. The order includes battery-electric trucks and loaders, marking a substantial expansion of Sandvik's BEV fleet at the Lamaque mine from two to twelve units. This follows a previous SEK 65 million order from Eldorado Gold in the third quarter. Deliveries of the new equipment are scheduled to begin in mid-2026 and continue into 2027. Mats Eriksson, President of the Mining business area at Sandvik, highlighted the proven capability of Sandvik's BEVs in underground
operations at Lamaque and expressed pride in supporting Eldorado Gold's strategy to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in their mining operations.
Why It's Important?
This development underscores the growing trend towards electrification in the mining industry, driven by the need for more sustainable and efficient operations. The adoption of battery-electric vehicles in mining can significantly reduce emissions and improve safety by minimizing the use of diesel-powered machinery underground. For Sandvik, this order not only strengthens its partnership with Eldorado Gold but also reinforces its position as a leader in providing sustainable mining solutions. The expansion of BEV use at the Lamaque mine could serve as a model for other mining operations seeking to transition to cleaner technologies. This move aligns with broader industry efforts to reduce carbon footprints and enhance operational efficiency, potentially influencing other companies to adopt similar technologies.
What's Next?
As Sandvik begins deliveries of the battery-electric vehicles in mid-2026, the mining industry will likely monitor the performance and impact of these vehicles at the Lamaque mine. Success in this deployment could lead to further orders and adoption of BEVs across other mining sites. Eldorado Gold's commitment to sustainability and efficiency may prompt other mining companies to explore similar investments in electric mining equipment. Additionally, Sandvik's continued innovation and expansion in the BEV market could drive further advancements in mining technology, potentially leading to new partnerships and market opportunities.
