Autonomous hauling crosses the underground–surface boundary

Key developments

• The announcement extends truck automation into surface environments.
• 3D LiDAR supports localisation, mapping and obstacle detection.
• Epiroc reports a June 2026 demonstration, including an automated obstacle stop.

What this means for mining operations

Automation creates interface requirements across equipment, route planning, communication and human access. Site acceptance must test the actual routes and operating conditions.

The MineNet perspective

Begin with a defined operating question, establish the baseline and validate the complete workflow in working conditions. Device specifications alone do not establish site performance.