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Epiroc field trials battery-electric SmartROC D65 BE with Capital Limited

Epiroc has partnered with leading mining services company Capital Limited to field test the innovative SmartROC D65 BE, a battery-electric surface drill rig for the mining and construction industry. The battery-electric version of the well-known SmartROC D65 surface drill rig will be tested in Capital Limited's African operations in 2024.
By Guy Woodford January 8, 2024 Read time: 2 mins
Epiroc has partnered with leading mining services company Capital Limited to field test the innovative SmartROC D65 BE battery-electric surface drill rig Pic: Epiroc

The demand for zero-emission or low emissions is high as the world transitions from fossil-fuel-driven equipment to sustainably powered rigs. Therefore, the SmartROC D65 BE field test is important for both Epiroc and Capital Limited, which share the same desire to decarbonise the mining industry. 

"This field test is an important step in our drive towards emission-free surface drill rigs. Capital Limited is always pushing the boundaries with new technologies, and that makes them an ideal partner for this field test," says Hakan Aytekin, Vice President of Epiroc Surface division. 

Capital Limited points out that this field test is a major step in its emission reduction and decarbonisation pathway while continuing to provide a premium service to its clients. 

"We are excited to be at the forefront of the transformation alongside Epiroc, bringing innovative electric drill rigs both to our fleet and to the broader market," says Peter Stokes, Chief Executive Officer, Capital Limited. 

Capital Limited has been a close and valued partner to Epiroc for many years. This trial will further strengthen the relationship between the two companies.

"We have developed a strong partnership over the years – and we are proud to support Capital Limited in their future transition journey," says Robin Edsborn, Global Product Line Manager, Epiroc Surface division. 

"Epiroc brings the supply of top-quality equipment, strong aftermarket support and competitive OEM financing options. Our close partnership ensures that we are appropriately prepared for the demand ahead of us," says Peter Stokes. 

The battery-electric SmartROC D65 field test will take place in Sukari Mine in Egypt, where Capital Limited already has a broad fleet of Epiroc drill rigs. 

Capital Limited is a leading service provider for the exploration and mining industry. The company provides full-service mining, drilling, maintenance, and geochemical analysis solutions. 

Epiroc has ambitious sustainability goals for 2030, including halving the CO2 emissions from operations and sold products. The aim is to offer a full range of emission-free underground equipment by 2025 and surface equipment by 2030.
 

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