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Normet SmartDrive®: Electrifying the future underground

Normet SmartDrive®: Electrifying the future underground

The latest battery-electric technology combined with our decades of craftsmanship expertise takes underground operations to the next level, and the Normet SmartDrive, which delivers higher performance with zero local emissions, sets the industry standard for sustainability and efficiency in mining and tunnelling.

Start Your Electrification Journey Today!

Since 2019, Normet SmartDrive battery-electric machinery has been at the forefront of transforming underground spaces into fully electric, zero-emission operations. With an expanding fleet across six continents, SmartDrive continues to make a sustainable future a reality today.

SmartDrive offers modular battery-electric vehicle (BEV) architectures designed to optimize energy consumption and performance in underground mining and tunnelling applications. Our SmartDrive equipment enhances productivity, reduces operating costs, and, most importantly, eliminates local emissions.

We provide comprehensive turnkey solutions to support your electrification journey, covering all aspects from planning to equipment end-of-life. Normet’s experts assist in conducting pre-studies, selecting the right equipment, designing charging infrastructure, training operational teams, and mapping facility and infrastructure requirements.

Benefits for the environment

  • Zero local emissions
  • Zero local greenhouse gas emissions
  • Lower energy consumption

Improved safety and health

  • Designed with safety as #1 priority
  • No diesel fumes or hot exhaust gases
  • Significantly lower noise levels
  • Very minor heating of surfaces
  • One pedal driving + many operator assistance functions

Reduced Total Cost of Ownership

  • Lower operational costs
  • Significantly reduced service brake wear
  • Even 30 % less maintenance costs

Increased efficiency and productivity

  • Decreased need for ventilation and cooling
  • Lower energy consumption and cost
  • No need for diesel logistics and storing
  • Longer service intervals
  • Modularity reduces spare part inventory need
  • Up to 50 % energy recuperation

SmartDrive design principles and architectures

Safety is at the core of the SmartDrive design, followed by operator comfort, modularity, efficiency, durability, maintainability, and fast charging capability. Our robust and safe battery designs have undergone extensive safety analysis. Within the XS, M, and L-series, as well as the Spraymec 8100 VC SD tunnelling sprayer, all applications utilize the same SmartDrive architecture, streamlining maintenance and reducing spare part inventories.

SmartDrive systems are engineered for high efficiency, ensuring maximum range, superior energy regeneration, and low operating costs. They incorporate industrial-grade components, undergo rigorous testing, and include CCS fast-charging and onboard charging support, eliminating the need for battery swapping.

Powered by permanent magnet electric motors with instant torque, SmartDrive BEVs operate without local emissions. The fully reversible 4WD ensures manoeuvrability in challenging underground conditions, while advanced energy recuperation technology captures braking energy during downhill driving. Additional braking power is provided by efficient dual-circuit, oil-immersed hydraulic brakes.

Operator wellbeing and safety

SmartDrive equipment enhances operator comfort with emission-free workspaces and significantly reduced noise and heat. This creates a safer and more comfortable environment for lifting, installation, and explosives charging.

Our FOPS and ROPS-approved front cabins, utilized in XS, M, and L-series SmartDrives, are designed with superior visibility, ergonomics, and serviceability. The intuitive controls, ergonomic layout, and an advanced Normet control system ensure safe and efficient operation.

Documents and Media

Normet SmartDrive Brochure

XS-series

For light logistics needs

The XS-series SmartDrive is tailored for challenging mining operations. Built on a standard platform with a 3,500 kg payload capacity, it offers modular solutions for all light logistics needs underground. Available in standard-range and long-range models, the XS-series adapts to varying site demands, with the long-range version providing extended range and ramp speed. XS SmartDrive machines can be equipped with a unique power bank feature, allowing external electric devices, such as power tools, to be powered directly from the machine.

Variomec XS 035 Crew SD 2025 - 768x527px

SmarDrive - XS-series

M-series

Ideal for process equipment

Engineered for emission-free process equipment, the M-series was the first Normet SmartDrive platform, with deliveries beginning in 2019. With a 10,000 kg payload capacity, it is well-suited for tasks such as concrete spraying, explosives charging, and medium-heavy logistics, including personnel and material transport.

Spraymec MF 050 VC SD 2023 - 768x527px

SmartDrive - M-series

L-series

For heavy transportation needs

At the heavier end of our electric offering, the L-series is designed for 15,000 kg payloads in demanding mining environments. Equipped with a high-power drivetrain and extended battery capacity, it excels in long-ramp operations, making it ideal for concrete, materials, and fluid transport in underground applications.

Utimec LF 600 Transmixer SD 2025 - 768x527px

SmartDrive - L-series

Spraymec 8100 VC SD - Optimized for tunnelling

The Spraymec 8100 VC SD tunnelling sprayer is engineered for peak spraying performance and seamless mobility underground. With cutting-edge dosing and pumping systems, it ensures precise concrete application while optional SmartSpray and SmartScan 3D LiDAR systems further enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Find out more about the Spraymec 8100 VC SD
Spraymec 8100 SD

Battery charging solutions

M- and L-series SmartDrive equipment, as well as the Spraymec 8100 VC SD, can be charged from standard underground AC sockets. The XS SD model can be AC charged using EVSE equipment or directly from suitable AC sockets with Type 2 adapter cables. For high-demand operations, CCS fast chargers enable rapid battery recharging, minimizing downtime and eliminating the need for costly battery swapping.

Our charging service concept optimizes infrastructure to maximize investment value. It includes charging infrastructure planning consultancy, fast-charging installation, training, spare parts, and maintenance services.

SmartDrive fast chargers

Normet provides a comprehensive range of fast chargers, from compact workshop units to high-power cabinets. Our mobile trolley charger is ideal for service workshops, while fixed installation cabinets offer a scalable solution for larger operations. The SmartDrive Xtreme charger container is designed for harsh underground conditions, featuring active cooling, enhanced durability and mobility - no fixed installation base required.

Battery Charging Solutions

Normet SmartDrive Customer Testimonials

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