Michael Samard CEO ARLYX
Could you describe Arlyx’s autonomous vehicle platform?
ARLYX is developing a fully electric, autonomous vehicle platform with a payload capacity of 5 t. Currently, our focus is on helping mining operations transport consumables, like metal bars, pipes, cement, explosives, adhesives or steel plates, between the surface and underground workspaces. Our system can transport these items without requiring human operators, which both increases productivity and improves safety. This flexibility is critical for mining environments, particularly underground. What are some of the other applications being considered for this platform?
Future applications include rapid-response search and rescue missions, firefighting, dust suppression through water spraying, and air quality analysis.
We envision a diversified ARLYX fleet made up of different vehicle sizes, all based on the same core technology. Smaller units could operate in tight spaces, while larger ones handle bulk transport. Vehicles could be networked into swarms or linked in train-like configurations. The goal is to transition away from fleets of large, human-operated trucks toward smaller, automated units that can operate more flexibly and safely. What defines this as a next-generation mining vehicle?
First, it is electric, which supports sustainability, reduces underground emissions and improves air quality for workers. Second, it is modular, enabling rapid configuration changes. Third, all models in the fleet share common components such as control systems, batteries, and user interfaces. This streamlines maintenance, training and integration. What is your view on Québec’s mining technology innovation ecosystem?
Québec has strong foundations in robotics and AI, supported by institutions like the University of Sherbrooke and Montreal’s AI community. However, despite this technical expertise, there is a cultural reluctance to adopt new robotics solutions domestically. Many Canadian robotics startups find their first clients abroad. With support from organizations like Groupe MISA, we hope to change that by encouraging local adoption and risk-taking.
Éloïse Harvey CEO EPIQ MACHINERY
What are EPIQ Machinery’s origins and key sectors of operation?
EPIQ Machinery is a Québec-based equipment manufacturer with a global presence, providing material handling solutions for heavy industry. Could you give us an overview of EPIQ’s solution offering?
Everything we do is custom, which sets us apart in the material handling equipment sector. Our team of 250 engineers and technicians collaborates closely with clients, creating specialized engineering solutions grounded in EPIQ’s proprietary technology – without relying on standard blueprints.
In the mining sector, our offering spans both material movement and refining. We manufacture autonomous, highly specialized custom vehicles, handling equipment, overhead cranes, rail and rail utility vehicles, and robotic systems for refining. We have implemented these bespoke solutions for clients such as the Iron Ore Company of Canada, ArcelorMittal, QIT-Fer et Titane, and Rio Tinto. How is EPIQ integrating digital technology into its equipment, and what are its benefits?
Recently, through our new division EPIQ Digital – launched in September 2024 following the acquisition of Alizent Canada’s metals and mining activities – we have advanced the digitalization of our equipment. We are delivering more connected solutions and supporting clients in realizing their Industry 4.0 vision. Our technology can fully remove human operators from certain plant areas, significantly enhancing both safety and productivity. These smart, connected systems enable faster and more informed decision-making, while also improving energy efficiency by ensuring equipment operates at optimal capacity. How are you progressing towards the electrification of your equipment?
We are firmly committed to transitioning to a fully electrified fleet. At present, all of our autonomous vehicles are electric, and we are actively expanding electrification across the remainder of our equipment. However, adoption rates within our core industries are progressing more slowly than anticipated. What are EPIQ’s goals for the rest of 2025?
We intend to pursue looking at potential acquisitions that will strengthen our position in the mining or other sector of activity.