Sandvik: What Would Happen to Supply Chains Without Mining?

Sandvik's eNimon highlights that, without mining, the supply of crucial materials – such as those used in EVs and solar panels – is virtually non-existent

Sandvik has showcased the world’s first electric car made without any metals or minerals. But the unique vehicle, called eNimon or the "no mine car", is transparent and doesn’t move.

Its purpose is to highlight what happens when mining disappears: the supply of crucial materials, including those propelling the energy transition, is virtually non-existent.

According to Sandvik, more than 90% of the components used in electric vehicles (EVs) come from mined materials. Without minerals and metals, there would be no EVs, no wind turbines and no solar panels.

eNimon serves as a visual reminder of how the world’s energy ambitions hinge on the mining industry.

“Sustainable mining is the backbone of the green transition. Without it, we can’t meet climate goals.” - Mats Eriksson, President of the Mining business area at Sandvik

Green energy needs minerals at scale

EVs demand roughly six times more mineral input than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, while wind farms need about nine times more minerals than gas-fired power plants.

These figures, published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), reflect the steep increase in demand for critical minerals like lithium, nickel and cobalt.

To reach net zero by 2050, the world needs up to five times more of these minerals than it uses today. The IEA forecasts that global demand for critical minerals will triple by 2030 and quadruple by 2040. In total, more than three billion tonnes of metals and minerals must be extracted to deliver the scale of wind, solar and battery storage systems needed.

This steep curve is why Sandvik is shining a light on sustainable mining practices.

"There wouldn’t be a green transition without mining. We want to electrify the world because it makes the world more sustainable.” - Mats Erikkson

Mining must operate more intelligently to keep pace. Modern mines aim to produce more responsibly, cutting energy per tonne and minimising waste. Operators now use data tools to guide operations in real time, moving from reactive planning to live optimisation.

Autonomous, digital and underground

Today's mining sector operates differently to how it did just a decade ago.

Autonomous equipment, powered by electricity, takes on much of the physical work, with battery-electric loaders, haul trucks and drills operating with help from advanced software. The machines work in sync, often without humans at the face.

Digital mining platforms provide a live view of underground activity. With full visibility, operators adjust everything from blasting schedules to airflow, maximising throughput and minimising downtime.

These technologies not only boost performance but also improve safety. Autonomous fleets run deeper into the earth and in harsher conditions without exposing workers to risk. Tools like collision avoidance systems, remote-controlled machinery and condition monitoring further reduce hazards on shift.

Rather than digging more, the aim is to dig smarter. The sector focuses on optimising extraction to meet the surge in demand tied to decarbonisation. It’s about supplying more of the right materials with less impact.

As demand for minerals grows, fewer students are choosing mining as a career path. Interest is slipping just when the sector needs new skills in automation, data science and environmental performance.

Sandvik’s global research finds that only around half of engineering students view mining positively. However, the vast majority (90%) say they would consider a role in the sector if they better understood its contribution to the green transition.

Mining companies now face the challenge of proving their credentials. That includes running electrified fleets, reducing water use and publishing transparent reports on their social and environmental impact. Community engagement also plays a larger role, with companies under pressure to show how they benefit local economies.

Source: Supply Chain Digital

Video Source: YouTube