In the demanding world of mining, size and strength are everything. Massive mining operations rely on equally massive machines to extract and transport tons of earth and minerals each day. At the core of these operations are mining dump trucks—gigantic vehicles designed to carry immense loads across harsh terrains.
But not all dump trucks are created equal. The most powerful mining trucks boast enormous engines, cutting-edge technology, and payload capacities that seem almost unreal. These behemoths of the mining world are engineering marvels, built to push the limits of what’s possible in industrial transport.
This article explores the top 10 most powerful mining dump trucks on the planet, ranked by engine power, payload capacity, and overall performance. Whether you’re a mining industry professional or just fascinated by giant machines, this list is sure to impress.
Criteria for Ranking
To fairly compare these mechanical giants, we considered several key factors:
- Engine Power (Horsepower or Kilowatts): The brute force behind every haul.
- Maximum Payload Capacity: How much weight the truck can carry, often reaching hundreds of tons.
- Size and Weight: The physical scale of the vehicle, including empty and loaded weights.
- Advanced Features: Innovations in hybrid technology, fuel efficiency, and safety.
- Real-world Application: Usage in major mining operations around the globe.
Each truck featured here represents the pinnacle of industrial design, combining strength, endurance, and functionality.
Top 10 Most Powerful Mining Dump Trucks
1. BelAZ 75710
- Manufacturer: BelAZ
- Country of Origin: Belarus
- Engine Power: 2 × 2,300 HP (total: 4,600 HP / 3,430 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 450 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: 360 tons
- Notable Features: Dual-engine system, electric drive, eight massive wheels
- Where It’s Used: Siberian coal mines, iron ore mines in Russia
Interesting Fact: The BelAZ 75710 holds the world record for payload capacity among all mining trucks.
The BelAZ 75710 isn’t just big—it’s absolutely colossal. With a payload of 450 metric tons, it’s the undisputed king of mining trucks. Powered by two massive diesel engines working in tandem, this Belarusian titan is designed to haul mountains—literally. Its size and power make it the top choice for the most extreme mining operations, where efficiency and capacity are paramount. It’s more like a mobile mine than a truck.
2. Caterpillar 797F
- Manufacturer: Caterpillar Inc.
- Country of Origin: United States
- Engine Power: 4,000 HP (2,983 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 400 tons
- Top Speed: 68 km/h (42 mph)
- Empty Weight: ~312 tons
- Notable Features: Cat C175-20 engine, advanced fuel management, ultra-rugged chassis
- Where It’s Used: Copper and gold mines across the Americas
Interesting Fact: One of the most widely used ultra-class haul trucks in the world.
The Caterpillar 797F is a legend in the mining industry. Known for its reliability, power, and efficiency, it’s the go-to workhorse in some of the largest open-pit mines on Earth. Its massive V20 engine delivers relentless torque, while its rugged build keeps it operational even in the harshest environments. Despite its enormous size, the 797F is surprisingly agile and fuel-conscious, making it a favorite among fleet managers and operators alike.
3. Komatsu 980E-5
- Manufacturer: Komatsu
- Country of Origin: Japan
- Engine Power: 3,500 HP (2,610 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 363 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: 261 tons
- Notable Features: Electric drive system, advanced operator safety features, onboard diagnostics
- Where It’s Used: North America, Australia, and Chile
Interesting Fact: Despite its size, it features one of the most advanced control systems in the industry.
Blending brute force with cutting-edge tech, the Komatsu 980E-5 is a modern mining marvel. Its electric drive gives it an edge in efficiency and smooth performance, while the massive diesel engine powers through the most challenging conditions. It’s not just about hauling rock—this truck is smart, safe, and incredibly reliable in large-scale operations.
4. Liebherr T 284
- Manufacturer: Liebherr
- Country of Origin: Germany
- Engine Power: Up to 4,023 HP (3,000 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 363 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: 237 tons
- Notable Features: Modular design, low fuel consumption, customizable drive options
- Where It’s Used: Global mining projects, especially in Australia and South America
Interesting Fact: It’s one of the lightest trucks in its class relative to its payload capacity.
The Liebherr T 284 stands out with its balance of power and efficiency. Designed for adaptability, it allows mine operators to configure it for different drive systems and terrains. Its lighter frame doesn’t sacrifice strength—instead, it boosts productivity with lower fuel burn and faster cycles. This German-engineered beast is all about smart hauling on a massive scale.
5. Hitachi EH5000AC-3
- Manufacturer: Hitachi Construction Machinery
- Country of Origin: Japan
- Engine Power: 2,850 HP (2,125 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 326 tons
- Top Speed: 56 km/h (35 mph)
- Empty Weight: 261 tons
- Notable Features: Advanced AC electric drive, intelligent vehicle control, high-efficiency design
- Where It’s Used: Copper mines in Chile, coal operations in Australia
Interesting Fact: Features one of the most responsive traction and braking systems in its class.
Precision meets raw strength in the Hitachi EH5000AC-3. This truck is engineered for stability and smooth operation, even under the heaviest loads. With its advanced AC drive system, it delivers efficient torque and superior control, reducing tire wear and improving safety on steep inclines. It’s a high-tech powerhouse trusted on some of the world’s steepest mining sites.
6. Terex MT 6300AC
- Manufacturer: Terex (now part of Bucyrus, acquired by Caterpillar)
- Country of Origin: United States
- Engine Power: 3,750 HP (2,796 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 400 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: 260 tons
- Notable Features: Diesel-electric AC drive, reinforced high-volume dump body
- Where It’s Used: Coal and ore mines in North America
Interesting Fact: Was one of the first ultra-class haul trucks to reach the 400-ton mark.
The Terex MT 6300AC helped set the standard for ultra-class hauling. Built for immense payloads and relentless work cycles, it’s a favorite in high-production mines. The diesel-electric drive gives it consistent performance, even under extreme stress, while its massive dump body can handle the most abrasive materials with ease. It’s a workhorse with serious muscle.
7. Komatsu 960E-2K
- Manufacturer: Komatsu
- Country of Origin: Japan
- Engine Power: 3,500 HP (2,610 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 327 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: 260 tons
- Notable Features: Komatsu drive system, ergonomic cab, high-reliability components
- Where It’s Used: Iron ore mines in Australia and Canada
Interesting Fact: Built to provide lower cost-per-ton over the long haul.
The Komatsu 960E-2K is built for endurance and efficiency, making it a top pick in long-life, high-tonnage mines. Its drive system is designed in-house by Komatsu, ensuring seamless integration with the truck’s mechanics and electronics. It’s a quiet giant—powerful, dependable, and easier on the environment than older-generation haulers.
8. Liebherr T 264
- Manufacturer: Liebherr
- Country of Origin: Germany
- Engine Power: 2,700 HP (2,014 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 240 tons
- Top Speed: 55 km/h (34 mph)
- Empty Weight: 170 tons
- Notable Features: High-efficiency diesel-electric drive, advanced monitoring systems, lightweight frame
- Where It’s Used: Manganese and bauxite mines in Australia and Africa
Interesting Fact: One of the lightest ultra-class trucks, boosting speed and fuel efficiency.
The Liebherr T 264 is a smart, streamlined hauler that prioritizes fuel efficiency without compromising power. Its relatively lighter frame allows for faster cycles and reduced wear, making it a cost-effective choice for operations focused on long-term gains. With precision engineering and tech-forward controls, it’s an ideal blend of strength and speed.
9. BelAZ 75601
- Manufacturer: BelAZ
- Country of Origin: Belarus
- Engine Power: 3,750 HP (2,796 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 396 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: 261 tons
- Notable Features: Diesel-electric transmission, high-strength frame, improved cooling systems
- Where It’s Used: Open-pit coal mines in Russia and Eastern Europe
Interesting Fact: A direct predecessor to the record-breaking BelAZ 75710.
The BelAZ 75601 may be overshadowed by its bigger brother, the 75710, but it still ranks among the global elite. Built with reliability in mind, it offers nearly 400 tons of payload capacity and powerful drivetrains for heavy-duty work. It’s a proven performer in tough environments, where dependability matters just as much as raw power.
10. XCMG XDE440
- Manufacturer: XCMG
- Country of Origin: China
- Engine Power: 4,000 HP (2,983 kW)
- Payload Capacity: 400 tons
- Top Speed: 64 km/h (40 mph)
- Empty Weight: ~260 tons
- Notable Features: Twin diesel engine setup, intelligent drive systems, smart monitoring
- Where It’s Used: Major coal and mineral projects in China
Interesting Fact: China’s largest mining dump truck and a sign of its growing heavy-equipment industry.
The XDE440 marks China’s bold entry into the world of ultra-class haul trucks. Combining sheer power with advanced automation and telemetry, it competes directly with the top players from the U.S., Japan, and Europe. With XCMG rapidly expanding its global reach, the XDE440 symbolizes a new era of mining equipment designed with both muscle and intelligence.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Mining Dump Trucks
| Rank | Model | Engine Power (HP) | Payload Capacity (tons) | Top Speed (km/h) | Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BelAZ 75710 | 4,600 | 450 | 64 | Belarus |
| 2 | Caterpillar 797F | 4,000 | 400 | 68 | USA |
| 3 | Komatsu 980E-5 | 3,500 | 363 | 64 | Japan |
| 4 | Liebherr T 284 | 4,023 | 363 | 64 | Germany |
| 5 | Hitachi EH5000AC-3 | 2,850 | 326 | 56 | Japan |
| 6 | Terex MT 6300AC | 3,750 | 400 | 64 | USA |
| 7 | Komatsu 960E-2K | 3,500 | 327 | 64 | Japan |
| 8 | Liebherr T 264 | 2,700 | 240 | 55 | Germany |
| 9 | BelAZ 75601 | 3,750 | 396 | 64 | Belarus |
| 10 | XCMG XDE440 | 4,000 | 400 | 64 | China |
Industry Trends & Innovations
The mining truck industry is undergoing a major transformation. While size and power still dominate the headlines, a new wave of priorities is emerging:
- Electrification: Manufacturers are exploring fully electric or hybrid powertrains to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
- Autonomous Operation: Self-driving haul trucks are being tested and deployed at major sites, increasing safety and reducing human error.
- Smart Monitoring: Real-time diagnostics, AI-driven maintenance alerts, and performance optimization systems are becoming standard.
- Lightweight Materials: To increase fuel efficiency, manufacturers are investing in lighter, stronger materials for frames and dump bodies.
- Sustainability Focus: With environmental regulations tightening, efficiency and eco-innovation are now as important as horsepower.
Conclusion
When it comes to mining dump trucks, raw power is just the beginning. These machines are feats of modern engineering—massive, intelligent, and built to withstand some of the toughest conditions on Earth.
- The BelAZ 75710 takes the crown for sheer payload and size.
- The Caterpillar 797F remains a global workhorse with unmatched reliability.
- Liebherr and Komatsu lead the way in blending power with fuel efficiency and tech-forward systems.
- And emerging players like XCMG are reshaping the competitive landscape with impressive innovations.
As mining operations grow more complex and environmentally conscious, the future of dump trucks lies not only in greater power, but in greater intelligence. The next generation of mining trucks will likely be autonomous, electric, and more efficient than ever.
