Kaishan is expanding its intelligent mining drill rig line-up in China, adding automation and digital control to both surface and underground blasthole drilling systems. New rigs integrate features such as remote operation, data logging and optimised drilling parameter control, positioning them alongside Chinese advances in autonomous haul trucks and battery-electric or hybrid powertrains. For mine operators, the move signals growing domestic options for integrated autonomous fleets, with drill–blast data increasingly available for real-time optimisation of fragmentation, cycle times and energy use.

Newmont has commissioned a Cat 6040 next generation hydraulic mining shovel at its Ahafo South gold mine in Ghana, its first deployment of the 400 t-class unit and one of only three mine sites globally using this model. The 6040, designed for large-scale hard rock operations, pairs with ultra-class haul trucks and incorporates Caterpillar’s latest cab ergonomics, hydraulics and machine health monitoring. For Ahafo South, the shovel is expected to lift loading productivity and reduce exposure around highwall and pit-floor digging zones.

Cummins has announced upgrades to its QSK60 high-horsepower mining engine alongside new capabilities for its PrevenTech remote monitoring platform, targeting better fuel efficiency, uptime and total lifecycle cost in large haul trucks and shovels. The QSK60 updates focus on combustion optimisation, extended overhaul intervals and improved parts commonality, while PrevenTech adds enhanced fault diagnostics, predictive maintenance analytics and fleet-wide performance benchmarking. For mine operators, the package aims to cut unplanned downtime, stabilise engine performance in high-altitude and high-dust environments, and support longer rebuild cycles.