the AMXE160 expands ABB’s motor capabilities with configurations ranging from 30kW to over 600kW, ensuring high power density and operational efficiency. (Image source: ABB)

Global electrification and automation pioneer ABB will spotlight its latest innovations at bauma 2025—the premier international trade fair for construction and mining machinery—taking place from 7–13 April in Munich, Germany

With a 140-year legacy, ABB continues to drive sustainable transformation in mining and construction, offering technologies that advance safety, energy efficiency, and productivity. At Booth 413 in Hall C2, attendees can explore how ABB is revolutionising operations through cutting-edge electric and automated solutions.

Efficiency meets innovation 

A key highlight of the show will be ABB’s unveiling of a suite of products aimed at supporting the shift to electric and hybrid heavy-duty vehicles. These systems are engineered for both newly built fleets and retrofit applications, including:

• HES580 mobile inverter: Marking a world-first, this 3-level inverter reduces harmonic losses by up to 75%, boosting motor efficiency and extending equipment life by minimising stress on winding systems.

• Pro battery series: These advanced traction batteries for electric heavy vehicles are compact, lightweight, and built for safety and long service life.

• AMXE160 motor: The newest addition to the AMXE portfolio, the AMXE160 expands ABB’s motor capabilities with configurations ranging from 30kW to over 600kW, ensuring high power density and operational efficiency.

ABB will also showcase solutions for improving energy efficiency off-vehicle. These include:

• ACS880LC multidrive: A liquid-cooled drive cabinet designed for harsh conditions to ensure dependable operation.

• ACS8080 MV drive: ABB’s newest air-cooled medium-voltage drive, offering top-tier reliability, flexibility, and performance.

Beyond drives and motors, ABB will present a wide range of automation and electrification technologies, such as its eMine portfolio, B&R systems, and updated Harnessflex conduit solutions.

• Harnessflex EVO metallic conduit: Designed for electric vehicle systems in mining and construction, this flexible steel conduit meets stringent fire safety requirements. It protects key components such as Power Distribution Units, Motor Control Units, E-Axles, and High Voltage Battery Packs. It is part of the expanded EVO family, which includes the industry’s first EV connector backshells and robust nylon conduits.

ABB’s mission is to shape a more energy-efficient and sustainable world. By fusing engineering expertise with digital innovation, the company helps industries achieve peak performance while advancing decarbonisation. As ABB describes it: “Engineered to Outrun.”

With over 105,000 employees and operations in 100+ countries, ABB is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).

Simplified map showing the extent of the Central African Copperbelt (yellow band) and the Zambian ‘Basement Domes’ region (in pink), overlaid with exploration licences held by Ivanhoe Mines in the DRC, Zambia, and Angola. (Image source: Ivanhoe Mines)

Ivanhoe Mines has secured a significant package of new exploration licences from the government of the Republic of Zambia, covering 7,757 sq km in the North-Western Province—an area believed to be a continuation of the Central African Copperbelt

This development stems from a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on 10 September 2024 between Ivanhoe Mines and Zambia’s Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, which has since aided Ivanhoe in identifying prospective licences and shared geological survey data.

Strategically located between Ivanhoe’s Western Forelands Project in the DRC and its Angolan licence package, the Zambian licences are more than three times the size of the Western Forelands area. Ivanhoe plans to explore for various mineralisation systems, including Basement Domes, sediment-hosted copper, and iron-oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) deposits, supported by geological evidence suggesting the extension of copper-rich Nguba Group sediments into Zambia.

Copper exploration expands

In parallel, Ivanhoe is continuing its US$50mn exploration program in the Western Forelands. The 2025 campaign will involve 102,000 metres of diamond drilling and 18,000 metres of RC drilling, with an updated Mineral Resource Estimate for Makoko, Kitoko and Makoko West expected soon.

The president of the Republic of Zambia His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema commented, “Today, we welcome Ivanhoe Mines’ new chapter into Zambia’s mining industry -one that promises jobs, growth, and prosperity for our people. This new investment in copper exploration is not only about achieving our government’s vision of over 3 million tonnes of copper production by 2031, it’s also about unlocking opportunities, empowering communities, and ensuring that our resources benefit every Zambian. Together, we will build an economy that works for all, with transparency, fairness, and a shared vision for the future.”

Ivanhoe Mines co-chairman Robert Friedland added, “Our entrance into Zambia marks an exciting new chapter in Ivanhoe Mines’ commitment to expanding our exploration footprint and testing the extent of the Central African Copperbelt… We believe there are plenty of new tier-one copper discoveries yet to be found under shallow Kalahari sands.”

The Zambian licence area—previously surveyed by BHP in the 2000s—has been largely unexplored since 2015. A new airborne geophysical survey by Zambia’s Ministry of Mines is currently underway, saving Ivanhoe months of data acquisition work.

Exploration activities are set to begin in Q2 2025. Ivanhoe will first conduct environmental baseline studies and community engagement, followed by detailed geophysical and geochemical work. These will map the vast area and guide future diamond drilling.

“We are particularly encouraged by the proactive support and collaborative approach demonstrated by the Zambian government… This includes a key role of partnership that Zambia is playing in terms of improving the regional hydroelectric power supply and distribution,” concluded Friedland.

Ivanhoe believes its Zambian and Angolan licences share notable geological traits with its record-setting discoveries in the DRC and is optimistic that these efforts will uncover the world’s next major copper deposits.

Also read: Ivanhoe Mines reshape DRC’s copper and zinc future

Komatsu to unveil powerful PC7000-11E electric excavator at bauma 2025. (Image source: bauma)

The global mining industry is under pressure to secure a stable raw material supply while reducing its environmental, climate, and social impacts. Addressing this 'mining challenge' will be a key focus at bauma 2025

As the world's leading trade fair for construction and mining machinery, the event—taking place from 7 to 13 April at the Munich exhibition center—will showcase groundbreaking solutions designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in mining.

Battery-powered charging without fixed infrastructure

Mining companies are increasingly adopting alternative drive technologies to cut emissions, particularly underground, where reducing exhaust fumes is a priority. One notable innovation at bauma 2025 is Aramine’s L440B, the first battery-powered charger that eliminates the need for a fixed charging infrastructure. Featuring an integrated charger, the L440B can be powered up anywhere with an available power connection, streamlining operations and reducing costly installations. Additionally, its modular battery system allows for continuous operation by alternating between charged battery units.

To further support emission-free energy generation directly at mining sites, Aramine and its partner, Tysilio, have developed portable solar power plants. Housed in containers, these solar units can be quickly deployed, making them ideal for remote mining locations.

Electrified excavation with power cable support

Komatsu is set to unveil one of the most powerful electrified mining machines at bauma 2025: the PC7000-11E large hydraulic excavator. Powered via a cable connection, this massive machine features a 44 m³ backhoe bucket and delivers exceptional digging power with a reduced carbon footprint. Its automatic cable-winding system ensures safe and efficient movement within open-pit mining operations.

Autonomous and high-capacity mining trucks

Decarbonisation and autonomy go hand in hand in modern mining, as seen in Liebherr’s T 264 dump truck. Developed in collaboration with Australian mining giant Fortescue, the truck boasts a massive 3.2 MW battery and a payload capacity of 240 tons, showcasing the potential for fully electric, high-performance mining vehicles.

Liebherr is also presenting the S1 Vision, a battery-powered, fully autonomous transport vehicle with an innovative design. Unlike traditional dump trucks, the S1 Vision features a single axle with two tires, allowing it to turn in place and move in any direction—ideal for confined spaces. Its scalable design supports payloads ranging from 220 kilograms to 131 tons. This cutting-edge vehicle has been nominated for the bauma Innovation Award in the machine technology category.

Digital advancements for smarter mining

Digital transformation continues to reshape mining operations, and bauma 2025 will highlight major advancements in this space. One standout innovation is Epiroc’s Underground Manager 2.0, a digital platform designed for tunnel construction projects. By integrating real-time machine data, the system enhances coordination across drilling, grouting, and anchoring operations, improving planning, performance tracking, and reporting.

Smart diagnostics for mining equipment

Paus is introducing the next-generation Universa 55, a highly versatile mining carrier equipped with advanced on-board diagnostics. Operators can monitor key performance data in real time, including control system sensor readings, and detect active faults early to prevent downtime. The Universa 55 also features a standard interface for cloud connectivity, enabling real-time monitoring, geofencing, statistical analysis, and remote diagnostics.

With a strong focus on sustainability, automation, and digitalisation, bauma 2025 will highlight the future of mining technology, offering industry leaders a glimpse into the next generation of efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

MYSOL strengthens its chrome mining operations in South Africa with Volvo equipment. (Image source: Volvo CE)

MYSOL has rapidly emerged as a leading chrome mining contractor in South Africa, driven by a fleet of high-performance Volvo Construction Equipment, including excavators, wheel loaders, and articulated haulers. The company also benefits from dedicated service support provided by local Volvo dealer Babcock

Solly Madibela, owner of MYSOL, is crafting a success story built on vision, determination, and the robust power of Volvo excavators, wheel loaders, and articulated haulers. By 2025, the company aims to extract 200,000 tonnes of chrome ore per month using its own fleet, reinforcing its position in the stainless steel supply chain.

The foundation of trust in Volvo machines

Madibela’s journey with Volvo Construction Equipment began with hands-on experience operating their machines. “The performance of the Volvo machines was excellent, and I noted that the technology was updated on every new model,” he recalled, reflecting on his early days as a contractor using Volvo crawler excavators. This exposure laid the foundation for his trust in Volvo’s durability and innovation, shaping his long-term strategy for MYSOL.

Entering the chrome mining industry

After establishing MYSOL in 2018, Madibela initially relied on rented machinery. However, his goal was to own and operate his own fleet of mining excavators. That ambition became reality in 2021 when he purchased a Volvo EC550E crawler excavator along with a Volvo wheel loader, marking the start of an important partnership.

MYSOL quickly expanded its operations, adding a second EC550E, followed by three EC950E and three EC750D excavators. Among them, the EC750D stood out as Madibela’s preferred choice. “The EC750D is so fast and reliable. You should see that machine working!” he says.

Scaling up with Volvo articulated haulers

In 2024, MYSOL further enhanced its mining fleet with Volvo articulated haulers, which work seamlessly alongside the company’s excavators in large-scale excavation projects. A major fleet expansion in September 2024 included 18 Volvo A40 articulated haulers, four additional EC750D excavators, and two more EC950E excavators.

“In this industry, performance is everything. Every cube that we move from the mine counts, so I need machines that are reliable and efficient. Thanks to the performance of the Volvo machines, and the support that I have received, MYSOL has been able to considerably expand over the last few years,” Madibela states.

Looking ahead to 2025, MYSOL has placed orders for 27 more articulated haulers and nine excavators to support new contracts.

Comprehensive service and support from Babcock

Beyond high-performance machinery, MYSOL’s success is also attributed to the strong service support provided by Volvo dealer Babcock.

“Babcock have supported our growth from the start, from structuring finance deals to safeguard our cashflow, to ensuring quick turnaround times of machines and parts, and providing fast responses and solutions to any queries we may have,” stated Madibela.

He highlights the importance of machine uptime and availability in his operations. “They understand that our business is based on production, and that if we don’t produce, we don’t make money. Availability of our machines is critical, so Babcock have provided us with four on-site mechanics to service our machines as part of our maintenance contracts. Their parts availability is excellent, and if a specific part isn’t available, they will make a plan for you.”

A Strong partnership driving mining growth in South Africa

For Madibela, the relationship with Volvo and Babcock extends beyond just acquiring equipment—it’s a strategic business partnership.

“Babcock don’t only care about selling me machines – they really care about my business,” said Madibela. “Their team is very hands-on and they find the best solutions and prices. Babcock have helped me to perform better, and thanks to them, I’m getting more business.”

As MYSOL continues to expand its presence in South Africa’s chrome mining sector, Madibela remains committed to Volvo Construction Equipment and Babcock’s support. “As my business grows, I intend to continue using Volvo Construction Equipment exclusively, as these powerful machines add leverage and value to my tender applications, affirming that MYSOL can deliver for our clients,” concluded Madibela.