Sany India eyes 50% y-o-y growth in mining business
“Our vision for Sany’s mining division is to drive consistent and robust growth, aiming for over 50% year-on-year expansion—a target we’ve successfully achieved over the past two years. This year is also shaping up to follow that trajectory,” says Saurojyoti Ray, Business Head – Mining, Sany India while talking to mojo4industry on the sidelines of IMME 2024 in Kolkata.
Sany recently launched an all-electric dump truck SKT105E for open-cast mining. How has the market responded to this launch?
The response has been very positive. The first electric truck trial site received great feedback, with the customer pleased with its performance. We have expanded trials to other mining areas like limestone and coal mining, and the outcomes have been very encouraging. The electric truck has shown excellent savings compared to conventional fuel trucks, marking a move toward greener mining. The demand is strong, with numerous inquiries at this exhibition as well.
Sany has been a pioneer in battery-powered mining equipment. This electric truck is also made in India. Could you elaborate on its production and future plans?
Yes, this is a truly made-in-India product, manufactured at our Pune facility. We see huge potential in the Indian market itself, so our immediate focus is on meeting local demand. However, we are also authorized to export to Southeast Asia and may explore export opportunities soon.
At IMME, you are also showcasing some large machines, including a dump truck and an excavator. How has the response been in the Eastern region?
The response has been very positive, especially with the rise in coal mining activities due to the power sector’s high demand for coal. Coal India and other companies are outsourcing work on a large scale, leading to substantial interest from contractors who handle these projects. Our displayed machines feature superior fuel efficiency, which is essential since fuel costs are a major factor in mining expenses. Customers are looking to reduce their operating costs, which makes our products attractive.
Besides fuel efficiency, what sets Sany apart from competitors in mining equipment?
We provide end-to-end solutions beyond just supplying trucks or excavators. We support the equipment throughout its operational life, offering a full maintenance contract with dedicated crews and spare parts at the mine site. This ensures equipment availability at a predictable cost, allowing customers to focus on mining without worrying about maintenance expenses or uptime.
You are also utilizing digital technology in these products. Could you share more about this?
Yes, absolutely. All our trucks and excavators are connected, allowing for remote monitoring through telematics. This feature provides real-time data on equipment performance, enabling efficient and proactive management.
As the head of Sany’s mining division, what is your vision for the mining segment, and where do you see growth in the coming years?
Our vision for Sany’s mining division is to drive consistent and robust growth, aiming for over 50% year-on-year expansion—a target we’ve successfully achieved over the past two years. This year is also shaping up to follow that trajectory. In the last three years, we’ve introduced six new products in India, and we’re committed to maintaining this momentum with innovative solutions, particularly in alternative and hybrid energy products, such as electric-powered excavators. As the market increasingly values advanced, fuel-efficient technologies, we see substantial growth potential. Our strong R&D capabilities align perfectly with these goals, propelling Sany’s expansion in India.
Which mining sectors or regions are expected to drive this growth for Sany?
Coal will be the primary driver, as it’s the most mined mineral, with extensive overburden removal requirements. This accounts for over 80% of India’s mining activities. Key states for this growth include Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa, Bengal, and Telangana. Limestone mining will also grow with the cement industry’s expansion. Iron ore mining may pick up in Karnataka and Goa, with some revival expected in Orissa as well this year.