Five Years of Partnership Behind the RKX VOLT 100
Innovation in heavy industry is often presented as a finished product. What is less visible is the journey required to transform an idea into a working machine.
Unveiled this week at Hillhead 2026, the RKX VOLT 100k represents the culmination of five years of development, testing, refinement and collaboration between Rock Extraction, Control Technologies UK and a number of specialist technology partners.
Since the early prototype stages, Control Technologies UK has worked alongside the Rock Extraction team as a systems engineering and integration partner, helping to develop the machine’s control architecture and coordinate expertise from key suppliers to deliver a unique solution for the industry.
Building the Foundation
The initial objective was clear: develop a control system capable of delivering precise torque and speed control for a rock-breaking system, allowing operators to optimise performance and efficiency.
From the outset, the challenge was far more complex than simply developing software.
The machine combines high-energy-density YASA electric motors and control hardware with a unique rock-breaking system. Bringing these technologies together required close collaboration across multiple disciplines, including software, controls, electrical systems and machine design.
Control Technologies UK was brought in to optimise the power generation and control architecture, which included developing the control software, integrating key technologies and ensuring the overall system evolved as a complete solution rather than a collection of individual components.
Looking Forward
The RKX VOLT 100k demonstrates what can be achieved when innovative companies work together towards a common goal.
As electrification continues to reshape heavy equipment and industrial machinery, collaboration between application experts, technology providers and systems integrators will become increasingly important.
The development journey behind the RKX VOLT 100k is a reminder that successful innovation is not simply about selecting the right technology. It is about bringing together the right people, expertise and partnerships to turn ideas into working solutions.
Mark Wood, CEO, Control Technologies UK
“The RKX VOLT 100k demonstrates what’s possible when innovative companies work together towards a common goal. Projects like this aren’t delivered by a single technology or supplier – they’re the result of strong partnerships, shared expertise and a willingness to solve complex engineering challenges collaboratively. Our role throughout the programme has been to help bring together the control systems, power architecture and enabling technologies into a cohesive solution. We’re proud to have supported Rock Extraction throughout the machine’s development journey and to have played a role in bringing that vision to life.”
Ian Dawson, Managing Director, Rock Extraction
“Developing the RKX VOLT 100k has required a huge amount of commitment from everyone involved over the last five years. Bringing together innovative mechanical, electrical and control technologies into a machine capable of transforming rock extraction has only been possible through close collaboration with partners who shared our vision. Control Technologies UK has played a key role in helping us integrate and refine the control architecture that underpins the machine’s performance. The unveiling of the RKX VOLT 100k at Hillhead 2026 marks a significant milestone in that journey and demonstrates what can be achieved when engineering expertise and innovation come together with a shared purpose.”