Maclean Engineering of Canada has just thrown down the gauntlet in the Australian mining sector with the launch of its ML5 Multi-Lift, a fully certified Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) designed to revolutionise elevated work platforms (EWPs). This isn’t just another piece of equipment; it’s a statement of intent, a challenge to the status quo, and a glimpse into the future of underground mining.
The ML5 Multi-Lift is a beast of a machine, capable of reaching heights up to 6.5 meters (21 feet) with a safe working load of 2260 kg (5000 lb). But what sets it apart is its versatility and safety features. An ISO coupler on the boom allows for interchangeable baskets and attachments, meaning it can adapt to various job requirements on the fly. But here’s where it gets interesting: the work basket duplicates the cab controls, complete with joysticks and the Human-Machine Interface (HMI). This means the operator has complete control of the machine from the basket, eliminating the need for an operator in the cab. This isn’t just a convenience; it’s a game-changer for task resourcing and safety.
Jari Tuorila, Vice-President, Australasia, doesn’t mince words when he describes the ML5. “It’s a market disruptor,” he states, and it’s hard to argue with him. The ML5 can function as an elevated work platform, a forklift, or even a materials handler with a jib crane attachment. It’s designed to eliminate heavy lifting and reaching, with ground-level servicing and swing-out wings for easy access. But perhaps the most significant advantage is the potential reduction in ventilation costs. As part of MacLean’s EV Series, the ML5 doesn’t produce diesel fumes, which could lead to substantial savings in ventilation for underground mines.
But MacLean isn’t just talking the talk; they’re walking the walk. Globally, over 100 MacLean BEVs have been sold, with the fleet amassing over 500,000 operating hours in mines. This isn’t a fly-by-night operation; it’s a proven technology with a track record.
So, what does this mean for the mining sector? It’s a clear signal that the future is electric. The ML5 isn’t just about reducing emissions; it’s about increasing efficiency, improving safety, and cutting costs. It’s about doing more with less, about optimising resources, and about looking towards a sustainable future.
Peter Black, Technical Sales Manager, puts it bluntly: “If you are operating an underground mine in Australia, or around the world, MacLean can help you achieve your decarbonisation targets.” It’s a bold claim, but with the ML5, MacLean is backing it up with action. This launch isn’t just about a new product; it’s about a new direction for the mining industry. It’s about challenging norms, sparking debate, and pushing the sector towards a cleaner, safer, and more efficient future. The ML5 Multi-Lift is more than just a machine; it’s a catalyst for change.
