JCB's Hydrogen Combustion Engine Receives European Approval for Commercial Use
Key Ideas
  • Eleven European authorities have granted licensing for JCB's hydrogen combustion engine, setting a milestone for hydrogen technology.
  • The development of the hydrogen combustion engine involved a significant investment of $122m USD and the expertise of 150 engineers.
  • JCB's chairman expressed pride in the team's achievement, highlighting the innovative design and the potential impact on hydrogen technology.
  • The approval of the hydrogen combustion engine in multiple European countries signifies progress and opens doors for widespread use of hydrogen engines.
JCB's hydrogen combustion engine, after three years of dedicated development, has received official certification for commercial use in eleven European countries. This achievement marks a significant milestone for hydrogen technology, with the Netherlands' Vehicle Authority RDW being the first to issue the certification. Following this, licensing bodies in countries like Great Britain, Germany, France, and Spain have also approved the engine. The project involved an investment of around $122m USD and the collaborative efforts of 150 engineers. The chairman of JCB, Lord Anthony Bamford, praised the engineering team for their innovative work in redesigning the combustion process for hydrogen. This development positions JCB as the first construction equipment company to create a fully operational hydrogen combustion engine. The approval in multiple European countries is seen as a positive step for the future of hydrogen technology, paving the way for the sale and use of hydrogen engines across the UK and Europe. JCB's range of hydrogen machinery includes backhoe loaders, excavators, and a mobile hydrogen bowser, showcasing the versatility and potential applications of this innovative technology.
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