China’s mining equipment industry has unveiled another major step toward electrification with the launch of the Zijin Longking ZL230E, a battery-electric haul truck capable of carrying up to 230 tonnes of material. Unveiled in Longyan City, Fujian Province, the ZL230E is designed for intensive, around-the-clock operation at ultra-large open-pit mines. With a 120-tonne net weight and a maximum gross vehicle weight of about 350 tonnes, it ranks among the largest battery-electric mining trucks developed in China. The three-axle truck combines a massive battery pack, high-power electric motors and advanced drive technology to tackle long-haul routes, steep gradients and demanding mine-site conditions without relying on diesel fuel. The ZL230E was developed by Zijin Longking, an equipment manufacturer controlled by Zijin, with the company targeting large-scale mining operations where high payload capacity and continuous availability are critical. Its 125-cubic-meter heaped bucket can carry up to 230 tonnes of material. The truck is engineered for loaded uphill travel and long haul routes while maintaining high reliability and low energy consumption. Power comes from two 800-kilowatt electric motors, with the multi-axle independent-drive system distributing power to the individual axles. The control system continuously adjusts torque and power output to maintain performance on gradients and in difficult operating conditions. The truck is also equipped with a battery system with approximately 1,400 kWh of capacity. According to Zijin Longking, the high-capacity battery can be charged from 10% to 90% in about 25 minutes. That rapid charging capability is particularly important for mining operations, where vehicle downtime can have a direct impact on productivity. Designed for Heavy-Duty Mining Operations Unlike conventional road-going electric vehicles, ultra-large mining trucks operate under some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. They regularly carry hundreds of tonnes of material, climb steep grades and operate continuously in dusty and rugged environments. Zijin Longking