Ampcontrol and PPK Mining Equipment announce new battery-electric personnel carrier vehicle for the underground coal industry.

A new agreement between two innovative Australian manufacturing and technology companies is set to deliver a range of new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) solutions for underground mining applications.

The collaboration will see the installation of the latest world-class BEV technology designed by Ampcontrol into new PPK Mining Equipment (PPKME) personnel carrier vehicles.

The companies will work together to also retrofit diesel drive trains in a range of other vehicles manufactured by PPKME, including the COALTRAM flameproof and explosion protected diesel Load Haul Dump utility vehicle.

PPKME Global Head of Mining Dale McNamara said, “This is a fantastic opportunity to combine our respective industry expertise to introduce the first new Australian designed and built battery-electric personnel carrier vehicle for the underground coal industry.

“Expanding our relationship to install Ampcontrol BEV technology into our COALTRAM utility vehicles will substantially benefit our customers and employees by developing new vehicles for all underground mines.”

Ampcontrol BEV technology builds upon the company’s expertise and industry reputation, centred around developing engineering solutions for use in hazardous environments, including underground coal mines.

“We are thrilled to be working with the team at PPK Mining Equipment to power their fleet of industry-renowned underground vehicles. Our new BEV technology lets our partners and customers power their existing equipment, converting from diesel to battery-electric energy, and new vehicles under development with a solution where safety and efficiency are absolutely paramount,” added Ampcontrol Managing Director & CEO Rod Henderson.