JAC Motors Australia has announced a landmark partnership with mining services provider Warrikal to put the JAC T9 EV Dual-Cab 4×4 ute to the test in one of the world’s toughest working environments – the Australian mining industry.
The six-month trial will see the fully electric ute deployed across real-world mining support applications in Western Australia, where durability, safety, and performance are non-negotiable.
A Step Toward Sustainable Mining Fleets
The collaboration aims to assess the JAC T9 EV’s capability to meet operational and sustainability demands in an industry that contributes $455 billion to Australia’s economy and employs nearly 300,000 people. Mining is increasingly under pressure to reduce emissions while maintaining productivity, making fleet innovation a critical lever for change.
Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director of JAC Motors Australia, said:
“We’re excited to partner with Warrikal to demonstrate how JAC’s electric vehicle technology can meet the rigorous demands of Australia’s mining sector. The JAC T9 EV Dual-Cab 4×4 combines the proven safety leadership of our T9 platform with advanced electric technology. This gives mining operations the reliability, capability, and most importantly, the safety standards that are absolutely critical when operating in some of Australia’s harshest environments.”
Safety Meets Zero Emissions
The JAC T9 platform is already recognised as Australia’s safest ute, achieving the highest aggregate score ever recorded under ANCAP’s latest testing protocols. Building on this, the T9 EV adds an advanced electric drivetrain delivering zero emissions and the kind of torque characteristics ideal for heavy-duty work.
For Warrikal, safety and innovation are central to the trial. CEO David Williamson highlighted the alignment:
“Safety is non-negotiable in our industry. The JAC T9 EV’s foundation as Australia’s safest ute, combined with innovative electric technology, makes it an ideal candidate to support the shift toward low-emission operations. We’re excited to put it through its paces over the next six months and explore its potential to enhance our fleet.”
What the Trial Will Measure
Over the next six months, Warrikal will gather detailed data on the T9 EV’s:
- Operational performance in demanding mining environments
- Battery performance and charging logistics
- Total cost of ownership compared with diesel equivalents
- Emissions reduction potential
- Integration with Warrikal’s fleet management systems
The outcomes will guide Warrikal’s fleet strategy and could pave the way for broader adoption of electric utes across the mining industry.
Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals
The JAC T9 EV is also part of the company’s broader “1+2+6+N” vision to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, a full decade ahead of China’s 2060 target. JAC has already been recognised as an “Industrial Carbon Peaking Pioneer”, highlighting its role in driving global sustainable mobility.
Implications for Fleet Managers
For Fleet Managers in heavy industries, this trial provides valuable insights into how electric vehicles can perform in high-stress, high-utilisation applications. If successful, it could prove that EVs are not only viable for urban deliveries but also for some of Australia’s most demanding operational environments.
The findings of the six month trial may shape both Warrikal’s long-term fleet strategy and wider mining industry adoption of electric work vehicles.
