At the Electric Mine Conference 2025 in Santiago, Chile, Normet announced the launch of two new Normet SmartDrive platforms – the XS-series and the L-series – further expanding its industry-leading portfolio of battery-electric underground equipment. Building on the success of the existing M-series SmartDrive, with over 60 units already operating across six continents, the introduction of the XS and L-series marks a significant milestone. These new platforms are designed to cover a wide range of applications and needs, from compact and agile solutions for confined spaces to heavy-duty, high-capacity machines for demanding underground operations. With these additions, Normet now offers a full spectrum of electric machines that deliver cutting-edge solutions for today’s evolving mining operations.
XS-series – for light logistics needs
A compact and agile XS-series SmartDrive with a 3.5-ton payload capacity is ideal for light transportation needs in smaller tunnel profiles and confined underground spaces. Its small size and four-wheel-steering enable superior manoeuvrability and access to narrow areas, making it the perfect solution for projects with limited space. The XS SmartDrive platform is available in standard- and long-range versions to suit different operational needs. The standard model features optimized battery capacity and motor power for tunnelling or mines with moderate driving between mine levels. The long-range version offers significantly greater range and higher ramp speed – making it the longest-range SmartDrive model.
The Variomec XS product offering includes logistics products to cover personnel, material and fluid transportation needs. Additionally, it includes specialized vehicles to carry out, for example, equipment servicing and the transportation of injured persons.
L-series – for heavy transportation needs
At the opposite end of the spectrum, the L-series SmartDrive is built for heavy-duty, high-performance operations with a 15-ton payload capacity. Built for heavy transportation needs, the L-series is equipped with heavy-duty components, ensuring durability and efficiency in long-ramp operations. With extended battery capacity and high motor power, the L-series delivers optimal speed and performance in steep mining ramps.
The L-series is engineered to handle the most demanding underground operations, including material transportation, concrete transport, and fluid transport. Its heavy-duty design and advanced battery-electric technology make it the ideal solution for projects that require reliable performance under extreme conditions.
Enhanced electrical safety and durability for underground charging systems
To further advance electrification in mining, Normet is introducing the new mineproof SmartDrive Xtreme container for fast chargers, specifically engineered for demanding underground environments. The fast charger unit can be installed in an actively cooled Xtreme container to ensure high uptime and longer service intervals, even in dusty conditions. The container also enhances electrical safety and features a robust mechanical design, allowing it to be moved without the need for a fixed installation base. The Xtreme unit is compatible with supply cabinets delivering up to 400 kW of charging power and supports four charging satellites as standard.
Normet – electrifying the future underground
With the launch of the XS-series and L-series SmartDrive platforms, Normet reinforces its position as a leader in underground electrification. This expansion reflects Normet’s commitment to developing more sustainable underground operations by reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing overall operational performance. Beyond the equipment itself, Normet continues to provide a full suite of electrification services, including charging infrastructure planning, operator, maintenance, and safety trainings, ongoing on-site support and digital solutions such as analytics and remote monitoring.