Utilization of the shovel fleet as a capital-intensive and operationally important asset in open-pit mines is a key indicator for mine production analysis. This paper investigates shovel utilization in surface mining using a novel smart platform integrated with the shovel operating joystick. It utilizes a unique algorithm to identify and differentiate operational and non-operational time based on comparing real-time data and average loading cycle time. This data is then employed to calculate overall uptime and identify downtime periods. A field study was carried out on six electric cable shovels consisting of P&H 2100 and TZ WK-12, at Sarcheshmeh Copper Mine. The analysis revealed that the average utilization of the whole fleet is equal to 33%, ranging from 16 to 48%, which is dramatically lower than the mine expectations. The statistical analysis showed that in 10–13% of the operating time, the utilization is higher than 75%, which is a moderately acceptable level. Finally, according to the outcomes of the field study and the developed smart platform, it could be concluded that improvements in dispatching system accuracy, revising the grade blending strategies, increasing processing plant flexibility and improved operator training could enhance shovel fleet utilization and whole mine productivity.