Caterpillar to unveil new Cat® R1700 XE LHD battery electric vehicle with MEC500 Mobile Equipment Charger at MINExpo

For Worldwide Release: June 2021
Release Number: 482PR21

Underground mining continues to be an early adopter of sustainable mobile equipment solutions, based on the need for a clean and safe working environment. The new Cat^® R1700 XE LHD, with its 15-tonne payload and 24,190-kg lift and tilt breakout, features a battery electric design that delivers superior productivity in underground applications with the benefits of no engine heat or exhaust emissions. It offers an 18 km/h top speed.

The new Cat LHD offers 100% battery electric propulsion, which generates significantly less heat. An Autodig function optimizes loading and traction control to extend tire life. Liquid cooling allows the batteries to be cooled while the machine is put back in operation, increasing machine uptime availability.

To maximize runtime, batteries stay on the machine. Using the portable Cat MEC500 Mobile Equipment Charger, the R1700 XE can be fully charged in less than 30 minutes using a single charger or in less than 20 minutes using two chargers.

There is a need for a clean and safe working environment underground, which currently requires installation and maintenance of complex and expensive ventilation systems for clearing exhaust emissions. With less emissions from the machines like the new Cat R1700 XE, mines can reduce the dependency on these ventilation systems. The new R1700 XE LHD is a key part of the vision to an all-electric mine. It is the first battery powered/zero emissions equipment for the underground hard rock mining LHD (Load Haul Dump) product line and offers remote control operation capability.

MEC500 Mobile Equipment Charger

A first of its kind in the industry, the new Cat MEC500 Mobile Equipment Charger is designed to charge quickly and safely wherever it is needed. Unlike static charging stations, the 1600-kg portable charger can be moved to where it is needed via towing, fork truck, or the R1700 XE. It eliminates the need for regular battery handling and swapping, allowing for more efficient charging and production.

Its 500kW capability delivers an impressive range of 300-1,000 Volts and up to 700 Amps. This fast charger can be used as a single unit to deliver a full charge to the R1700 XE in less than 30 minutes or in parallel to charge the LHD in less than 20 minutes. Its adjustable output voltage and current can trickle charge the battery, maintaining optimal performance for the R1700 XE.  

The charger is built rugged meeting ISO2867 rockfall protection and IP66 rating for water and dust protection. Key components are isolation mounted against vibration or seismic activity. It is sealed against humidity with enclosed air conditioning.

MINExpo 2021 attendees will get a first look at the R1700 XE and MEC500 this September in the Caterpillar Central Hall exhibit 6229 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

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