Epiroc To Use ABB E-Drivetrain System

ABB announced that Epiroc has become one of the first heavy vehicle manufacturers to adopt its new e-drivetrain system. The system combines a motor, drive and vehicle control unit to enable heavy special and commercial vehicles to transition to full-electric operation.

Epiroc, a supplier of underground mining and infrastructure equipment, is using the ABB e-drivetrain in its second-generation battery-powered vehicles. The system includes electric motors and the HES880 high power drive for propulsion and auxiliary applications.

“ABB views the electrification of heavy vehicles as an important step towards a low-carbon future,” said Heikki Vepsalainen, managing director of ABB’s Motors and Generators business. “Our work with Epiroc demonstrates that we are leading the way as a provider of e-mobility systems and products for heavy vehicles. Our broad portfolio includes EV chargers, ABB Ability for grid and fleet management, drivetrains and robotized production lines for electric motors, batteries and other drivetrain components.”

Vehicle electrification is expected to enhance energy efficiency and mine productivity as well as reducing ventilation needs and maintenance costs, said ABB.

The company said it launched the e-drivetrain platform to help manufacturers of heavy-duty special and commercial vehicles make a smooth, fast-track transition to zero-emission electric operations and can work alongside OEMs to design a drivetrain that suits specific applications.

ABB, which operates in more than 100 countries with about 147,000 employees, said it has an installed base of more than 50,000 drivetrains for heavy electric vehicles including rail vehicles, buses, construction equipment, mining and special vehicles. The company has also partnered with Northvolt to develop a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery factory.