Oz-Designed EV Surfaces But Headed Underground

Australia’s first locally designed and built electric vehicle surfaces, only to head underground.

Tomcar says full-scale production of the zero-emissions Tomcar LV1 begins in November at its manufacturing facility in Melbourne, with deliveries to mining-industry customers starting in February.

The LV1 is designed principally for the mining industry, with features that meet the requirements of the various mining applications in which the EV will operate.

“The design goal of the LV1 was simple – to develop a robust electric vehicle capable of operating reliably in some the most challenging environments for sustained periods, with little or no maintenance,” the company says in a statement.

“With more than 60% Australian-made componentry, the LV1 meets Australia’s mine-safety standards, providing a commercial off-the-shelf mobility solution for mines anywhere in the world.”

Tomcar reports the prototype Tomcar LV1 has undergone two years of intense development, with trials of its electric powertrain under way in harsh environments throughout Australia.

Co-founder and CEO David Brim says Tomcar teamed with EV-technology developer Energetique to create the LV1.

“The entire vehicle is being developed here, including the unique proprietary software and our incredible powertrain system design,” he says.

The LV1’s brushless permanent-magnet motor operates continuously at 80 hp and peaks at 135 hp and generates 111 lb.-ft. (150 Nm) of continuous torque or 221 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of peak torque at a maximum 8,500 rpm. A selection of battery-storage modules ranges 12-20 kW operating at 270-425V.