The underground trial began at the start of September at Centennial Coal’s Myuna bord and pillar operation, located 35km south of Newcastle. The trial is expected to last two months before PJB takes the Nipper to another mine for further trials.

The mines were selected for their challenging conditions. PJB managing director Phil Berriman said he expected the trials to last six months in order to gain meaningful data.

The trials will measure service life costs of various critical components on the vehicle.

The new Nipper features an entirely new axle with dramatically increased ratings and fitted with CAT seals to all four hubs.

“We’re confident that a 338% increase in available braking torque will ensure improved brake component life. Similarly, a 141% increase in torque rating of the hubs will enable them to survive the most arduous duty,” Berriman said.

The long-wheelbase Nipper boasts automatic transmission, constant four-wheel drive and a monocoque construction (using corrosion resistant 3CR12 steel) which makes the vehicle stronger and gives it a significantly reduced mass.