RMKE invests in AI-equipped EV heavy equipment for coal logistics operations
Thursday, May 14 2026 - 04:20 PM WIB
By Romel S. Gurky
PT RMK Energy Tbk (IDX: RMKE) will invest Rp45.5 billion in the first phase of procuring electric vehicle-powered heavy equipment equipped with artificial intelligence-based safety systems, as the Indonesian coal logistics company moves to cut emissions and improve operational efficiency.
The company said the order includes 10 electric dump trucks manufactured by XCMG, one electric reach stacker from HELI and a three-ton lithium-powered electric forklift. The equipment is expected to arrive at operational sites in the third quarter of 2026.
RMKE, which provides integrated coal logistics services, said it is preparing 5.75 megawatts (MW) of electricity capacity in the initial phase of the transition, with plans to expand capacity to 10 MW as more equipment is converted to electric systems.
The company has also built a dedicated 3.8 MW electrical substation at its Simpang Station and Keramasan Port operational areas to serve as the charging hub for the EV fleet.
RMKE said internal feasibility studies showed operating costs for the electric reach stacker would be about 18% of comparable diesel-powered units, while EV trucks would cost around 39% to operate compared with internal combustion engine models.
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The company estimated annual savings of up to Rp0.8 billion for each electric reach stacker and Rp0.38 billion for each EV truck.
RMKE added that all units would feature AI-powered smart safety systems, including automatic steering deceleration and real-time performance monitoring, aimed at improving safety in high-risk operational areas.
President Director Vincent Saputra said the initiative formed part of the company’s broader operational electrification strategy.
“With the implementation of this strategy, we believe RMKE will be able to reduce workplace accidents with a zero-fatality target, while consistently lowering fossil fuel consumption through lower electricity costs and implementing much cleaner coal logistics operations,” Vincent said in a statement.
RMKE said the use of one electric reach stacker alone could reduce carbon emissions by around 180 metric tons annually and generate savings of up to Rp23.1 billion over five years.
Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak