The load characteristics of the beam pumping unit were analyzed. The working principle of the switched reluctance motor (SRM) and its characteristics and advantages for applications in the pumping unit motor were briefly introduced. The control structure and control strategy for the SRM used in the pumping unit system were analyzed. The experimental platform of the SRM based on the simulated pumping unit load characteristics was built and tested. The results showed that the SRM was applied to the pumping unit with high operating efficiency and energy saving effect. The SRM had the advantages of simple structure, high reliability, flexible control, good speed regulation performance, high operating efficiency and low temperature rise. Its application to the pumping unit system had unique inherent advantages and could improve the whole operating efficiency of the pumping unit system and realize better energy saving effects. The field test results at the Xinjiang Oilfield production plant further verified this conclusion.