JCB Makes History with Approval of Hydrogen Combustion Engine for Commercial Use
Key Ideas
  • JCB has become the first construction equipment company to develop a hydrogen combustion engine, approved for commercial use in Europe, with further global certifications expected.
  • A team of 150 engineers has dedicated over three years and £100m to this groundbreaking development, showcasing JCB's commitment to zero-emissions solutions.
  • The official certifications from various European licensing bodies mark a significant milestone, allowing for the widespread sale and use of JCB's hydrogen engines in multiple countries.
  • JCB has successfully deployed over 130 evaluation engines in backhoe loaders, telehandlers, and generator sets, with real-world testing demonstrating promising results on customers' sites.
JCB has received official approvals from licensing authorities for its pioneering hydrogen combustion engine, marking a historic achievement in the construction equipment industry. This milestone makes JCB the first company globally to fully develop a functional combustion engine powered by hydrogen. Over a span of three years, a dedicated team of 150 engineers has invested £100m into this groundbreaking project, emphasizing JCB's dedication to sustainable solutions. The approvals obtained enable the sale of JCB's hydrogen engine across Europe, with certifications from additional countries expected later in the year. Lord Bamford, the chairman of JCB, expressed his pride in the team of British engineers whose relentless efforts have led to this significant progress. The Netherlands Vehicle Authority, RDW, was the first to officially certify the engine for sale, followed by several other European countries. JCB has already deployed more than 130 evaluation engines in various machinery, such as backhoe loaders and telehandlers, for real-world testing at customer sites. The successful testing and certifications obtained signify a major step forward in the commercialization of hydrogen-powered equipment, further solidifying JCB's position as an industry leader in environmental innovation. This development not only showcases the technical prowess of JCB's engineers but also underscores the company's commitment to driving sustainability in the construction and agricultural sectors.
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