JCB Secures Approval for Hydrogen-Fuelled Engine Expansion Across Europe
Key Ideas
- JCB has obtained approval from 11 licensing authorities in Europe for its hydrogen-fuelled engine, allowing commercial use and sales across the continent.
- The certification marks a significant milestone for JCB, positioning the company as a leader in hydrogen combustion technology for construction equipment.
- The Lower Thames Crossing project in the UK mandates the use of zero-emission equipment, creating a growing market for hydrogen and electric-powered machinery.
- JCB's successful testing of over 130 hydrogen engines on various equipment types signals promising advancements and readiness for widespread adoption.
JCB has achieved a major milestone by securing approval from licensing authorities in Europe for its hydrogen-fuelled engine, making it the first construction equipment company to develop a fully functional combustion engine powered by hydrogen. A dedicated team of 150 engineers has been working on this groundbreaking £100 million project for over three years. The company has received certification from 11 European countries, with more expected in 2025. JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford expressed optimism about the future of hydrogen combustion technology, emphasizing its role as a zero-emission solution for equipment. The approval opens up new opportunities for JCB to supply hydrogen-fuelled machinery, especially in projects like the Lower Thames Crossing in the UK, which requires zero-emission construction equipment. JCB's successful testing of hydrogen engines on various equipment types has positioned the company as a frontrunner in sustainable technology in the industry, paving the way for a shift towards more environmentally friendly construction practices.