Chinese firm unveils new electric machines to cut fuel costs
CLOUDINE MATOLA
Chinese earthmoving machinery giant, Sany Equipment Zimbabwe, has introduced a new range of electric tippers and loaders in the country, in a move aimed at reducing diesel consumption for the construction and mining sectors, Business Times can report.
Speaking on the sidelines of the product launch last Friday, the company’s general manager, Pillar Wang, said the introduction of electric machinery is expected to significantly cut operational costs, particularly fuel expenses.
“Today, we are excited to bring our new energy products to Zimbabwe — including electric tippers and electric loaders,” Wang said. “As we all know, Zimbabwe is facing significant electricity challenges, yet mining contributes nearly 60% to the country’s GDP. Reducing our customers’ diesel and mining costs is a top priority, which is why we are introducing these electric products. Compared to traditional diesel-powered machines, these can help save at least US$50,000 to US$60,000 per year in fuel costs alone. We firmly believe that new energy equipment will be a game-changer for the entire equipment and mining industries,” Wang added.
The company’s key accounts manager, Raymond Mandireva, revealed that Sany is rolling out two models of electric tractor trucks, namely the SE588 and the SE860 Super Truck.
“Today, we’re launching two models — the SE588, equipped with a 588 kWh battery, and the SE860 Super Truck, powered by a massive 860 kWh battery. Both models feature our proprietary SANY Mota Battery technology,” Mandireva said.
According to Mandireva, the SE588 offers a range of 440 kilometres when hauling a standard container, while the SE860 can cover over 600 kilometres on a single charge. Both vehicles are equipped with super-fast dual-gun charging capabilities of up to 600 amps, allowing them to recharge from empty to full in just 45 minutes.
In addition to the tractor trucks, Sany also showcased two electric dump truck models — the 6×4 Charging 320 and the 8×4 Charging 440.
“Our competitive edge is evident in every detail — right down to the wiring harnesses,” Mandireva added.
Sany Equipment Zimbabwe is part of Sany Group, which operates in 180 countries and boasts 40 industrial parks and 46 advanced ‘lighthouse’ factories worldwide.
The company is also expanding its footprint in Africa. In September this year, Sany will open a new factory in South Africa, where it will begin assembling excavators locally.
Meanwhile, Sany Equipment Zimbabwe has signed a US$13 million deal with Grand Resources for the supply of 80 units of electric tractors for cement and coal transportation.
The tractors — SE860 Super Trucks — each have a range of up to 600 kilometres, with the first batch set to arrive in Zimbabwe this September.
