Making mining safer: FIRSTGREEN reveals remote-operated electric skid steers

Mining operations have always been fraught with risks, but FIRSTGREEN‘s remote-operated electric skid steers are set to transform the industry by significantly enhancing safety and productivity. With mining fatalities increasing by 30% from 2022 to 2023, this lineup of innovative technology offers a much-needed solution to mitigate injuries and improve operational efficiency.

The primary concern in mining operations is worker safety. Traditional machinery exposes operators to hazardous conditions, leading to a high risk of injuries. FIRSTGREEN’s remote-operated electric skid steers eliminate this risk by allowing operators to control the machines from a safe distance. This not only enhances safety but also ensures continuous operation without the need for frequent human intervention, thereby boosting productivity.

Cutting-edge features

What sets these skid steers apart is their state-of-the-art design and functionality. They are fully electric and produce zero emissions, making them environmentally friendly. The reduced emissions contribute to healthier working conditions for miners, minimizing exposure to carcinogens such as diesel exhaust, which is commonly used in heavy machinery.

The ELISE CBL and ROCKEAT lines are built without a cabin, lowering the machine’s overall height and eliminating the need for FOPS/ROPS certification. This design enhances loading capacity and ensures a more balanced weight distribution with a lower center of gravity, thereby improving stability. It’s also more suitable for use in confined spaces.

Additionally, their remote operation capabilities allow them to be controlled via the standard Danfoss-developed remote cabin or the FIRSTGREEN mobile app, offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience.

Expanding on success

Building on the success of its first product, the ELISE CBL, which emphasized “Clean Building Logistics” with remote operation and electric propulsion, FIRSTGREEN has significantly expanded its offerings. The new lineup introduces several innovative models tailored to meet diverse operational needs. 

These models include the versatile ROCKEATline, the robust ELISE line, and the compact MiniZ line. Here are the details of each line. 

FIRSTGREEN models

ELISE CBL Line

ELISE-CBL
Image courtesy of FIRSTGREEN
Models7009001200
Maximum power3×27 kW
Maximum torque3×120 Nm
Maximum load capacity700 kg900 kg1,200-1,500 kg
Operating weight2,550 kg2,550-3,550 kg3,550 kg
Key featuresCabinlessFully remote operationElectric propulsion system
UseHigh-risk mining environments

ROCKEAT Line

ROCKEAT
Image courtesy of FIRSTGREEN
Models7001200
Maximum power3×27 kW
Maximum torque3×120 Nm
Maximum load capacity700 kg1,200-1,500 kg
Operating weight2,550 kg3,550 kg
Key featuresCabinlessFully remote operationElectric propulsion systemLower profile
UseIdeal for confined and hazardous environments with low ceilings

ELISE Line (cabin/cabinless)

ELISE-Line
Image courtesy of FIRSTGREEN
Models7009001200
Maximum power3×27 kW
Maximum torque3×120 Nm
Maximum load capacity700 kg900 kg1,200-1,500 kg
Operating weight2,800 kg3,300 kg3,800 kg
Key featuresEco and Power Mode60+ attachmentsIn-cabin or fully remote operationLow noise
UseOperation akin to a standard fully featured skid-steer loader but comes with multiple attachments, giving the flexibility to perform a variety of tasks

MiniZ Line

MINIZ-Line
Image courtesy of FIRSTGREEN
Models400
Maximum power3×3 kW
Maximum torque3xIPM120
Maximum load capacity400 kg
Operating weight1,100 kg
Key featuresCompact modular constructionNarrow stack system easily fits through 32” standard interior doors
UseWork the tight spaces, oversight externally, all-terrain capacity

With the expansion of FIRSTGREEN’s remote-operated electric skid steers, business operations are set to achieve unprecedented levels of safety and efficiency, whether in mining, construction, or backyards, setting a new benchmark for industry standards.

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