JCB and BAM Construction's Successful Trial of Hydrogen Loadall in Birmingham
Key Ideas
  • BAM Construction partners with JCB to test a hydrogen-powered Loadall telescopic handler in Birmingham, showcasing the machine's performance and refuelling process in a real construction setting.
  • The trial highlighted the simplicity of the hydrogen refuelling process and the machine's ability to offer zero-carbon emissions while maintaining power and torque characteristics comparable to diesel models.
  • BAM emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative fuels like hydrogen to meet ambitious net zero emission targets and reduce Scope 3 emissions associated with the supply chain.
  • JCB's extensive development of the hydrogen combustion engine over three years has led to successful testing on customer sites, demonstrating the viability of hydrogen as a carbon-free fuel for construction and agricultural equipment.
BAM Construction in the UK has collaborated with JCB to conduct a trial of a hydrogen-powered 540-180H Loadall telescopic handler in Digbeth, Birmingham. The project aimed to evaluate the machine's performance and refuelling process in a practical construction environment. JCB facilitated hydrogen supply to the site through a refuelling trailer, simplifying the refuelling process for the Loadall. BAM praised the ease of refuelling and the zero-carbon emission driveline of the unit, noting its power and torque capabilities similar to diesel models. BAM's innovation technical lead, Colin Evison, emphasized the importance of testing hydrogen technology on real construction sites to assess its practicality beyond controlled environments. The environmental sustainability manager, Maggie Hall, reiterated BAM's commitment to reducing emissions, particularly the Scope 3 emissions influenced by the supply chain. Hall highlighted hydrogen as a crucial element in achieving net zero targets due to its serviceability and refuelling convenience. JCB's Group director of special projects, Tim Burnhope, shared the company's journey of over three years in developing the hydrogen combustion engine, which has undergone extensive testing on JCB sites. Following successful trials, JCB's hydrogen combustion engine received licensing approval for commercial use across Europe, signifying a significant milestone in promoting hydrogen as a future fuel for various equipment sectors. The investment of approximately US$122 million into the project demonstrates JCB's commitment to advancing sustainable technology.
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