The XCMG Green Summit 2025, held in Xuzhou and Hulunbuir, in China, brought together mining industry leaders from across the world to experience first-hand how innovation and sustainability are shaping the future of mining. Over the three-day event, XCMG demonstrated its commitment to delivering green technologies and smart solutions that directly respond to the global challenges of decarbonisation, efficiency and cost competitiveness.

Zero-Carbon Mining in Practice

One of the key highlights of the summit was the visit to the Hulunbuir mine, where 100 fully autonomous trucks are already in daily operation. This is currently the world’s largest commercial deployment of driverless mining trucks, supported by integrated charging and intelligent control systems. Delegates were able to observe how large-scale autonomy is no longer a concept, but a reality that is improving both safety and productivity.

The summit programme also included a tour of the Yimin open-pit mine, where XCMG has implemented a full-chain zero-carbon mining solution. This approach covers all the core stages of mining, including drilling, excavation, haulage, crushing and auxiliary services. By integrating renewable power generation, energy storage and electrified fleets, the site has become a living example of how net-zero mining can be achieved in practice.

Breakthrough Equipment on Display

XCMG used the platform to showcase its latest generation of green mining equipment. The company introduced the ZNK95 pure-electric unmanned mining truck, which is already in commercial operation. It also unveiled a fully electric 130-t truck, designed for medium-capacity open-pit operations, and a 240-t hybrid truck. The hybrid truck reduces fuel consumption by about 17% compared with conventional diesel models, offering a practical step toward decarbonisation while maintaining endurance and productivity.

Other innovations included battery-swap systems that cut charging delays, collaborative platforms that allow loaders, graders and auxiliary fleets to work in coordination, and lifecycle remanufacturing services that extend the useful life of equipment while reducing waste. Altogether, nearly 80 units and systems were displayed and demonstrated in operational settings.

Strengthening Global Collaboration

The summit concluded with the release of the Joint Declaration on Global Zero-Carbon Smart Mining, which was signed by 107 companies from 26 countries. The declaration establishes a framework for advancing electrification, automation, net-zero practices and circular economy models through international cooperation.

A South African delegation of 15 representatives participated in the summit, highlighting South Africa’s growing interest in sustainable mining technologies and its alignment with global efforts to decarbonise the mining industry.

Opportunities for Africa

For Africa’s mining sector, XCMG’s solutions provide a clear pathway to address several pressing challenges. Fully electric and hybrid fleets can reduce dependency on diesel, lower exposure to volatile fuel prices, and support compliance with ESG standards demanded by regulators and investors. At the same time, autonomous technologies can improve safety and deliver consistent operational performance.

By adopting these technologies, African mines have an opportunity to enhance competitiveness, secure long-term sustainability and position themselves at the forefront of green mining innovation.

The XCMG Green Summit 2025 demonstrated that the future of mining is not only innovative but also sustainable. With its portfolio of fully electric, hybrid and autonomous solutions, XCMG is redefining what is possible for mining operations worldwide.

Mines interested in learning more — or in conducting site trials of XCMG’s green mining solutions — are invited to contact admin@xcmgmining.co.za.