Lloyds Metals completes diesel-to-electric conversion of large mining excavator

Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) has completed the diesel-to-electric conversion of a Liebherr R 996 excavator, which the company said is the first machine in this category to be retrofitted for fully electric operations.

According to the company, the project is part of its efforts to align mining operations with decarbonisation and industrial innovation initiatives in India. The conversion was carried out by LMEL’s in-house engineering and technology teams and involved redesigning the excavator’s core systems, including the power architecture, control systems, and safety and digital monitoring systems.

The company stated that the electrification is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower diesel consumption, while also improving operational efficiency. LMEL said that the major subsystems used in the project were engineered and sourced within India, in line with the government’s Make in India initiative.

The company further stated that the use of electric mining equipment is expected to improve operational performance through real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and equipment reliability, while supporting safety and efficiency in mining operations. LMEL added that it plans to continue focusing on technology-led growth, sustainability, and local development as part of its mining operations.

Commenting on the development, B. Prabhakaran, Managing Director of Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited, said “This landmark achievement, is not just about electrifying a machine—it is about reimagining the future of mining. At LMEL, we believe that responsible mining and sustainability must go hand in hand. This achievement demonstrates India’s capability to deliver world-class, zero-emission solutions in even the most complex and heavy-duty environments. We are proud to contribute to a future where mining is both productive and environmentally responsible.”

Established in 1977, Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited operates in India’s metals and mining sector with facilities in Chandrapur and Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. The company is expanding its iron ore, DRI, and pellet production capacities, while also developing an integrated steel plant. It is implementing measures such as EV adoption in mining, slurry pipelines, and renewable energy use.

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