The $25M lesson that changed how I approach fleet strategy
We were advancing a feasibility with a vision for a full BEV underground fleet, a true "mine of the future". 90 pieces of gear designed to deliver on ESG, innovation, and long-term value. It was a model case of progressive mine design - but that commitment came with a trade-off. BEVs cost 20-30% more upfront than diesel, and capital was tight - so we took a step back: Trucks and LHDs? High utilization, clear productivity gains - BEVs made sense Drills and support vehicles? Often stationary. Low engine hours. Easy access to power - the business case wasn't there. We proposed a hybrid fleet - BEV where it moved the needle, diesel where it didn't. The result? It saved $25M in upfront capital. The takeaway: Sometimes the future is built in phases, not leaps. Effective fleet strategy balances ambition with practicality - aligning with the levers that matter most. We didn't abandon the future. We made it achievable. How are you approaching major tech shifts in your mine plans?