ZERO Automotive has launched its second-generation Toyota LandCruiser 79 ZED70 Ti, its safest and toughest light electric commercial vehicle available for the mining industry.
Founded in Adelaide in 2018, ZERO Automotive’s goal is to create the world’s safest and toughest electric underground vehicle, with founder Dave Mitchell utilising his significant engineering knowledge to define the space’s future.
The design incorporates ZERO’s HEPS (Hazardous Environment Protection System) underbody armour protection, enhancing the vehicle’s safety and longevity in underground applications.
Additionally, HEPS will be a diesel-powered vehicle upgrade option.
ZERO Automotive has appointed Joe Di Santo as its new CEO, demonstrating its commitment to the market and expanding its operations.
“Across the board, mining companies have a desire to lower their environmental impact, ZERO Automotive has been working side by side with many in the industry to provide a solution that caters to the very specific needs of underground mining,” Di Santo said.
According to Di Santo, the launch follows five years of development and two years of prototype testing by Barminco and AusMinerals.
“Underground mining is an incredibly tough environment for vehicles, and we know we have gone above and beyond to develop this ADR approved package that is up for the task. For instance, our HEPS solution can withstand use in highly corrosive environments, which will genuinely increase the longevity and safety of the vehicles in the long term,” he stated.
“Ultimately, the goal for ZERO Automotive is to become a leader in electrified vehicle drivelines, which is why we are working with trusted industry partners such as ZERO’s Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) battery supplier Toshiba, as we look to continue to develop quality solutions that will improve the sustainability of mining,” he added.
Hard rock underground mining services company Barminco has signed on as the model’s first customer. Meanwhile, CarBon Leasing & Rentals, Australia’s top zero emissions leasing company, has also confirmed an order for 200 ZED70 Tis to be added to its leasing fleet, starting in quarter four of 2024.
“Mining operations across Australia are facing increasing pressure to transition their fleets to meet ESG targets and the Zero ZED70 Ti represents a new opportunity to do this in the light commercial space,” CarBon Leasing & Rentals CEO Scott Gillespie said.
“We’ve already received a great deal of interest and look forward to deploying these innovative EVs next year to a range of customers,” he stated.
The company noted that the agreement between ZERO and CarBon is a significant step towards assisting the mining industry in achieving zero emission goals and maximising investment return.
“We know that vehicle life span is a determining factor when it comes to fleet choices for the underground mining sector, the benefits offered via our innovative partnership with CarBon coupled with our HEPS solution, is the perfect example of how responsible business practices and economic success can be achieved,” Di Santo said.
