Zijin Longking has introduced the ZL230E, a 350-ton all-electric mining truck, at a ceremony in Longyan City, Fujian Province. Developed in partnership with Australia’s EACON, the ZL230E sets a new benchmark for battery-powered heavy-duty mining equipment in China. The truck’s massive payload and rapid charging capabilities highlight the accelerating shift toward electrification and automation in the mining sector.
A New Benchmark in Electric Mining Trucks
The Zijin Longking ZL230E, also known as the LK350E, is a three-axle mining truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 350 tons and a payload capacity of 230 tons. This makes it the largest battery-electric mining truck currently available in China.
Powering the ZL230E are two 800 kW electric motors, each fitted to the rear drive axles. These motors are managed by advanced drive systems that coordinate power delivery for optimal performance, especially in challenging mining environments.
Battery and Charging Technology
The ZL230E is equipped with a 1,400 kWh battery pack designed for durability and high-capacity output. According to Zijin Longking, the battery system can be charged from 10% to 90% in just 25 minutes, significantly reducing operational downtime compared to traditional diesel refueling.
This ultra-fast charging capability is a key advantage for mining operations seeking to maximize productivity while reducing emissions.
Autonomous Operation with EACON Technology
The ZL230E was developed in collaboration with EACON, an Australian company specializing in autonomous mining solutions. EACON’s technology stack includes perception, decision-making, control, and cloud-based dispatch systems, enabling dependable driverless operation tailored to open-pit mining environments.
EACON currently operates over 3,100 autonomous trucks across more than 40 large-scale mines, including sites in China and Australia such as Zijin Mining’s Zijinshan Gold-Copper Mine and the Norton Gold Fields project.
Competitor Comparison
The ZL230E stands above other battery-electric mining trucks in China, such as the Longking LK220E, which features a 140-ton payload and a swappable battery system for slightly smaller applications. Another notable competitor is Lingong Heavy Machinery, whose electric mining trucks are deployed in major Chinese lead-zinc mines and are part of a fleet of over 290 electric trucks.
While these competitors offer significant electric solutions for mining, the ZL230E’s 230-ton payload and rapid charging set it apart in terms of scale and operational efficiency.
Historical Context
China’s mining equipment sector has seen substantial growth, with sales reaching $45.3B (~AUD 64B) in 2024 and a year-on-year profit increase of 51.5%. Zijin Mining, a key player in the industry, has expanded its global presence, surpassing peers outside North America and Australia.
The introduction of the ZL230E reflects the industry’s ongoing investment in electrification and intelligent manufacturing, positioning Chinese manufacturers at the forefront of sustainable mining technology.
Why this matters
The launch of the ZL230E demonstrates the rapid advancement of battery-electric and autonomous technologies in heavy industry. By offering a high-capacity, fast-charging electric mining truck, Zijin Longking is helping to reduce emissions and operational costs in a traditionally diesel-dependent sector.
This move also highlights China’s commitment to green industrial transformation and its growing influence in the global mining equipment market.
What this means for buyers
Mining operators seeking to modernize their fleets with electric and autonomous vehicles now have access to one of the world’s largest battery-powered trucks. The ZL230E’s fast charging and high payload make it a compelling option for large-scale operations aiming to reduce downtime and emissions.
Buyers should compare the ZL230E’s capabilities with other electric mining trucks like the LK220E and Lingong models, and consider regional availability and support when planning fleet upgrades.
Key Specs
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 350 tons (~317,515 kg/~700,000 lbs)
- Payload Capacity: 230 tons (~208,653 kg/~459,000 lbs)
- Number of Axles: 3
- Motor Output: 2 x 800 kW (1,600 kW total)
- Battery Capacity: 1,400 kWh
- Charging Time (10–90%): 25 minutes
- Developer: Zijin Longking and EACON
- Autonomous Operation: Enabled by EACON technology
Source
Images sourced from: im-mining.com
