A partnership between SEA Electric and MEVCO represents another step in the mining industry’s shift to going green.
SEA Electric has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MEVCO, which will see electric Hilux and Landcruiser models made commercially available to the mining industry.
MEVCO, a systems integrator focused exclusively on electric light commercial vehicles in the mining industry, has made a commitment to order 8500 units over the next five years, in a deal valued at close to $1 billion.
“This is a pivotal partnership for the mining industry,” MEVCO chief executive officer (CEO) Matt Cahir said.
“It enables the world’s leading EV (electric vehicle) technology for heavy and light commercial trucks to be commercialised on a scale that makes sense for the bespoke needs of the mining sector.”
According to SEA Electric, the vehicles provide all-electric range, driving performance, and environmental credentials, with zero local emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, or nitrous oxide.
These features make the vehicles safe for use in underground operations because they emit no noise, fumes, heat or vibrations, SEA Electric said. In addition, fast DC-to-DC charging is said to provide up to 80 per cent battery power in less than one hour, with a five-year factory warranty on the batteries supplied.
“We have developed technology that is perfectly adaptable to a wide range of commercial vehicle tasks that have typically been the domain of diesel-powered engines,” SEA Electric founder and CEO Tony Fairweather said.
“Through MEVCO, the mining industry will now be able to access cutting-edge technology, which delivers top performance and total cost of ownership prospects, all with sustainability at the forefront.”
For SEA Electric, the announcement is the logical next step in the company’s expansion in the commercial vehicle space.
“Across all industries, companies now understand they have a role to play in ensuring they are a part of the solution to the environmental problems we face,” Fairweather said.
“This deal is a significant step forward in Australia and shows just what is possible when it comes to electrifying the world’s fleets.”