Decarbonisation through the innovation and development of award-winning electrification solutions.
As of December 7 2023, Driftex is the world's first IECEx Group I certified Electric Vehicle (EV), using an Intrinsically Safe traction battery.
Background:
With a growing and immediate industry demand for low emissions technology, we sought to design a solution to eliminate diesel emissions in underground applications, supporting fewer ventilation requirements and reducing noise.
Through a collaboration with Solitech, The University of Newcastle and ResTech, a design for a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) was born, addressing the need for greener, intrinsically safe mine site applications.
Solution:
Offered as an overhaul to existing diesel assets, the result was DRIFTEX—a battery electric personnel carrier vehicle. DRIFTEX seamlessly integrates to any standard EV charger and does not require proprietary charge equipment. It is engineered for fast charging and charges from flat to full in 40 mins with 75 kw charger.
The absence of diesel emissions, specifically Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) which is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen, is a significant advantage. This eliminates a hazardous substance that poses health risks. Additionally, there is reduced reliance on mine site ventilation due to the absence of diesel, leading to decreased demand on fuels.
Outcome:
Reduced diesel emissions and noise result in greater protection of work health and wellbeing as well as reduced underground ventilation costs. This technology supports the reduction of site environmental emissions, contributing to improvements in the social license of the mine. The inclusion of IoT capability enables connectivity and enhanced data collection for efficient monitoring and management. Moreover, users have the flexibility to customise the technology according to their specific requirements, resulting in a net zero pathway.
The DRIFTEX innovation has won a number of leading awards, including Health Excellence at the 2023 NSW Mining HSEC Awards and the Health, Safety, Environment and Community (HSEC) People’s Choice Award. Ampcontrol was also named one of Australia’s Most Innovative Companies for 2023 by the Australian Financial Review (AFR) for our advanced Australian manufacturing of energy solutions—an accolade specifically attributed to DRIFTEX.
