QUESTION 2 (VEHICLE AND FLEET OPTIMISATION) 2.1 You are responsible for selecting a haul truck for an open-pit mining operation in South Africa. The mine has an estimated ore reserve of 10 million tons with an average ore grade of 3.5%. The mining plan aims to produce 1 million tons of ore per year over a 10-year mine life. The average haulage distance from the mining face to the processing plant is 3 kilometers, and you must consider the local conditions and regulations in South Africa. You have narrowed down your equipment options to two haul truck models: Model SA-1 and Model SA-2. a. Calculate the total ore production over the 10-year mine life for both models. (2 Marks) b. Determine the total fuel consumption (in liters) for each model over the 10-year mine life. (2 Marks) c. Calculate the total maintenance cost for each model over the 10-year mine life. (2 Marks) d. Compute the total cost of ownership (purchase price + fuel cost + maintenance cost) for both models over the 10-year mine life. (4 Marks) e. Based on your calculations and considering South African conditions, decide on which haul truck model would you recommend for this mining operation, considering both cost and performance factors? (3 Marks) 2.2. In the context of mining and heavy equipment transport, please indicate the differences between rigid body trucks and articulated trucks. Provide at least three distinguishing characteristics for each type of truck and briefly explain their advantages and disadvantages in mining operations. (10 Marks) 2.3. List two factors that are considered in selecting a rigid or articulated truck. (2 Marks)