TMS presented battery-electric MSVs for carbon-free tunnelling logistics at NAT 2026
Moving toward carbon-free logistics underground
As environmental regulations tighten and project owners place greater emphasis on sustainability, tunnelling projects face increasing pressure to reduce emissions and improve working conditions underground. Logistics, as a central component of tunnelling operations, play a decisive role in this transformation.
Multi‑Service Vehicles have been a proven solution for flexible underground transport for decades. Traditionally powered by diesel engines, MSVs are now undergoing a significant technological shift toward battery‑electric drive systems.
TMS’s presentation at NAT 2026 focused on how electrification of MSVs provides a practical and scalable pathway to reducing greenhouse gas emissions while improving air quality, lowering noise levels, and enhancing overall safety in confined tunnel environments.
Battery technologies and system design considerations
A key topic of the presentation was the selection of suitable battery technologies for underground applications. TMS compares three widely used lithium-based solutions—LTO (Lithium Titanium Oxide), LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate), and NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt)—highlighting their respective advantages in terms of safety, energy density, and cost.
Beyond battery selection, the presentation also examined different energy transmission architectures for electric MSVs. These include fully electric drive systems as well as electro hydraulic configurations, each offering specific benefits depending on tunnel conditions such as length, gradient, and payload requirements.
Impact on jobsite organization
The transition from diesel to electric MSVs affects not only vehicle technology but also the organization of tunnelling operations. Charging strategies, battery autonomy, and infrastructure planning must be considered early in the project lifecycle.
Questions such as charging location, charging time integration into logistics cycles, and the possibility of intermediate charging points directly influence the efficiency of electric MSV deployment.
TMS emphasizes that successful implementation relies on early integration of energy management and logistics planning, ensuring that operational flexibility is maintained while meeting sustainability targets.
Enabling the next generation of tunnelling
With its contribution at NAT 2026, TMS highlights the important role of innovative logistics solutions in the future of underground construction.
Battery electric MSVs represent more than a technological upgrade—they are a key enabler for cleaner, quieter, and more efficient tunnelling operations.
By combining proven MSV expertise with advanced electrification concepts, TMS continues to support its customers in preparing for the next generation of sustainable infrastructure projects.