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In Norway, the Rana Gruber iron ore mining and mineral processing operation has purchased a fleet of 19 battery-electric vehicles from Sandvik. The order is being filled during this year's first quarter through 2024 and is Sandvik's second-largest battery-electric mining fleet sale to date.

Valued at 370 million Swedish kronor (US$35.5 million), the Rana Gruber order includes eight drills, six trucks, and five loaders, along with on-site support and batteries for the fleet.

"This is a new world for us but Sandvik has extensive battery-electrification expertise," said Gunnar Moe, CEO of Rana Gruber. "We are already very pleased with our cooperation with Sandvik and their commitment to support our BEV transition, not as a supplier but as a true partner wanting to take the journey with us."

Established in 1964, Rana Gruber produces approximately 1.8 million metric tons of iron ore concentrates annually from its five deposits in Norway's Dunderland Valley and exports mainly to the European Union. Its iron ore concentrates and specialized products are all based on natural mineral resources upgraded and tailored for applications in multiple industries without the use of chemicals.

Sandvik BEVs produce less heat, noise, and zero underground exhaust emissions, reducing the need for ventilation. In addition to cutting carbon emissions, the compact design, high power-to-weight ratios, and responsive controls of the electric equipment increase speed and efficiency while requiring no additional infrastructure or power systems.

"BEVs have demonstrated their power to reduce a mining operation's carbon footprint," said Mats Eriksson, president of Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions. "Rana Gruber is a pioneer in the mining electrification shift in Europe, and we look forward to supporting their battery-electric transition."

As an important employer in the region, Rana Gruber works continuously as a force for change in society and the environment, utilizing hydroelectric power, short transport distance, and a highly efficient and optimized processing facility.

Sandvik

With AutoSwap and AutoConnect, mobile charging stations offer the fastest battery swap out on the market, about three minutes. The portable charging and cooling units are the same size for ease of relocation and handling.

Nancy Stien Schreiner, environment and sustainability manager at Rana Gruber, further describes the company's ideals, "We continuously strive to be a leader in sustainability; reducing our environmental footprint, creating a safe and attractive work environment and being a positive contributor to the community around us and society in general."

The BEV fleet is a leap towards the company's goal to operate the world's first carbon-free iron ore mine by the end of 2025.

This drive towards sustainability is in lockstep with Sandvik's push to be a leader in offering zero-carbon-emitting equipment to the mining sector.

"Our battery-electric solutions offering is a strategic focus area for Sandvik and an essential driver in shaping the sustainable mine of the future," says Stefan Widing, CEO and president of Sandvik. "We very much look forward to helping Rana Gruber realize their decarbonization strategy."