Epiroc has secured a major order for autonomous and electric open-pit mining equipment in Africa, as mining companies increasingly adopt low-emission and automated solutions.
The order, valued at 380 million Swedish kronor (approximately €35 million), includes a fleet of electrically powered Pit Viper 275 E rotary blast hole drill rigs. Epiroc said deliveries are set to begin shortly and are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The company did not disclose the identity of the customer, the project location, or the specific country where the equipment will be deployed.
“Epiroc is on the forefront of mining automation and electrification, and this major order is another significant step forward in our journey to support customers to operate in the safest, most productive and most climate-friendly manner possible,” said Helena Hedblom, president and chief executive of Epiroc.
The Pit Viper 275 E is a cable-powered, driverless drill rig capable of autonomous positioning and precision drilling. The system is designed to enhance safety by reducing the need for on-site personnel while improving operational efficiency through continuous operation.
Epiroc has previously supplied battery-electric mining equipment to projects in Canada, including the Boomer M20 SG face drilling rig, Scooptram ST18 SG and ST14 SG loaders, and the Minetruck MT42 SG hauler.