Press-centre

12 june 2026

Responding to the demands of the Customers, BELAZ is not only preparing to launch the latest underground mining equipment powered by conventional diesel fuel, but is also developing innovative models running on alternative fuels. Design, testing, and improvement of mining equipment is carried out in close collaboration with Russian mining and metallurgical company Norilsk Nickel, which has significant experience in underground transport operations.

The first underground loader with a lithium-ion traction battery pack, MoAZ-4057 with payload capacity 10 Tons, is undergoing testing trials at Mogilev affiliative company of BELAZ. This is an electric alternative to diesel loader that will help transform mining operations into a new format—quiet, environmentally friendly, and energy-efficient.

A battery-powered underground loader can reduce noise and emissions in underground tunnels, providing significant savings and making extraction more comfortable and safer.

– In deep mines, where the main expense is ventilation from exhaust gases and heating from diesel internal combustion engines, "green" electric trucks will be in high demand. Customers will save not only on the price difference between diesel fuel and electricity, but also, mostly, on ventilation costs for these mines, says confidently Alexander Naskovets.

The operation of electric machines also eliminates the need for periodic oil and coolant changes and fuel quality monitoring.

Traction battery pack of 10-ton underground loader powers 145 kW asynchronous electric motors, as well as an electric motor for the hydraulic system to control the attachments. The maximum speed of the underground loader is 25 km/h, and the bucket capacity is 4.1 cubic meters. The electric drive allows for almost continuous operation: while one battery pack is running, the other is charging at the charging station included in the kit. A full charge of the batteries takes just two hours, increasing the number of charge cycles and extending the battery life.

An electric drive is not only more efficient but also improves safety in enclosed spaces. The loader is equipped with the necessary protection against electrical shock and fire.

The underground loader MoAZ-4057 has already been demonstrated in test mode to our Russian partners from Nornickel, who are interested in similar equipment.

– We've inspected the electric machine. Together with our colleagues from MoAZ, we're exploring the best solutions for specific issues, including the battery. Once the "green" loader has completed all factory tests, we're ready to take it to the Skalisty mine in Norilsk. There, at a depth of over two kilometers, we'll work under real-world conditions—at temperatures exceeding +40 degrees Celsius—to see how we can improve the loader, said Andrey Skokov, Deputy Director of Norilsk Nickel's Polar Division

It should be emphasized that all components of this innovative loader—from the metal structures to the control systems and charging station—are jointly by Belarusian and Russian production. Joint efforts and industrial cooperation within the Union State help develop technological sovereignty and create competitive products, opening new horizons for the mining industry.

On June 25-26, the 13th Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia will be held in Minsk and the Minsk Region, with the participation of leading manufacturers. BELAZ will host several thematic venues at this important event.