SMS Equipment and Komatsu have delivered the first PC9000 hydraulic mining excavator to Suncor’s Fort Hills site in Alberta, marking a major milestone in surface mining technology.
Weighing in at 900 metric tons, the PC9000 is Komatsu’s largest hydraulic shovel to date. It boasts a bigger bucket, extended reach, and increased digging force, designed to pair seamlessly with the 980E ultra-class haul truck for efficient five-pass loading—cutting cycle times and lowering cost-per-ton.
“Suncor is always looking to enhance operations through innovation,” said Peter Zebedee, EVP of oil sands at Suncor. “The PC9000 offers real value for our mining operations.”
Komatsu’s Ansgar Thole called the PC9000 a game-changer for productivity and operator comfort. The model was developed using feedback from global customers and refined in close collaboration with SMS and Suncor.
A second PC9000 will be delivered to Suncor in July, with more units arriving in 2026.