China’s Sany expects rising demand for mining trucks in Saudi Arabia

Chinese company Sany expects demand for mining trucks in Saudi Arabia to rise, viewing the Kingdom’s mining sector as a promising opportunity despite a slowdown in major construction projects.

According to UK-based International Mining magazine, Sany currently operates its SKT130S hybrid mining truck, with a 90-ton capacity, in Saudi Arabia, along with four SKT105S trucks, each with a 70-ton capacity.

The magazine noted that the SKT130S was showcased at the Heavy Equipment Forum and Exhibition (HEC) in Dammam last February. The truck features a 925 kW (1,240 hp) diesel-electric hybrid engine, hydropneumatic suspension, and regenerative braking technology, reducing fuel consumption by 20% to 25% compared to conventional trucks.

Advances in truck technology

The report added that the SKT105S is equipped with a 390 kW (530 hp) engine, similar suspension, and a reinforced frame that reduces structural stress by 51% compared to some competing products, extending operational life and improving driver comfort.

The report also highlighted the presence of other Chinese mining trucks in the Saudi market from companies such as Zoomlion, Tonly, XCMG, and LGMG. These are mainly used in earthmoving and construction projects, including those linked to Aramco and NEOM.

Reliance on global brands

The magazine pointed out that major mines in the Kingdom, such as Mansourah-Massarah, Al Jalamid, and Al Khobra, still primarily rely on rigid mining trucks from Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Volvo, operated by specialized contractors including Saudi Comedat, EPSA, and Jac Rijk Al-Rashaid.