Komatsu Germany Mining Division (KGM), in partnership with SMS Equipment, has officially handed over the first Komatsu PC9000 hydraulic mining excavator to Suncor Energy at its Fort Hills mine in Alberta, Canada. The handover ceremony, held on May 1, marked the global debut of the 900-tonne-class PC9000 — the largest hydraulic shovel ever built by Komatsu and the most powerful model currently entering the surface mining market.
Redefining Productivity in Surface Mining
The Komatsu PC9000 introduces a new level of scale and efficiency to large-scale mining operations. Equipped with a larger bucket, extended reach, and enhanced digging forces, the PC9000 is designed as a five-pass match for Komatsu’s 980E ultra-large haul truck. This configuration allows for double-sided loading, optimizing cycle times and reducing overall cost-per-tonne of material moved.
“The PC9000 is set to transform the future of mining,” said Ansgar Thole, President and Managing Director, Komatsu Germany GmbH. “This new class of hydraulic mining excavator raises the bar for productivity, efficiency, and performance, while enhancing operator comfort and safety.”
A Product of Global Collaboration
The PC9000 represents the culmination of years of engineering innovation and customer collaboration. Developed based on insights from Komatsu’s global mining partners and refined in close coordination with SMS Equipment and Suncor, the PC9000 reflects the collective expertise of all three organizations.
“The PC9000 is a shining example of what true collaboration can achieve,” added Thole. “It stands as the embodiment of an extraordinary partnership between KGM, SMS Equipment, and Suncor — three forces united by trust, expertise, and a shared vision for operational excellence.”
Partnering for Possibility
SMS Equipment, Komatsu’s exclusive Canadian distributor, played a key role in bringing the PC9000 to life.
“At SMS Equipment, we say we’re ‘Partners in Your Possibilities,’” said Dennis Chmielewski, Executive Vice President of Mining, SMS Equipment. “Through this collaboration, we’ve helped unite Komatsu and Suncor to create a truly remarkable machine that will optimize operations and deliver lasting value to our customers.”
Building on a Legacy of Innovation
Komatsu, SMS Equipment, and Suncor share a long-standing partnership focused on advancing mining technology in Canada. Their collaboration has previously delivered several industry firsts — including the country’s first Autonomous Haulage System, the 980E haul truck, and the first PC7000 front shovel.
“Suncor is always exploring ways to enhance our operations through the latest equipment and technology,” said Peter Zebedee, Executive Vice President, Oil Sands, Suncor. “Our shared passion for excellence with Komatsu and SMS, combined with the tangible value the PC9000 offers, made the decision to invest clear.”
Suncor will receive a second PC9000 unit in July 2025, with additional deliveries expected in 2026, further strengthening its mining capabilities and reinforcing the partnership’s shared commitment to innovation and sustainability.
