JCB has achieved a landmark milestone in the development of its hydrogen combustion engine, becoming the first construction equipment manufacturer to secure certification for commercial use across Europe. The company announced today that 11 licensing authorities, including those in the UK, Germany, and France, have granted approval for the engine, with more countries expected to follow in 2025. This breakthrough positions JCB at the forefront of sustainable technology for construction and agricultural machinery.
The hydrogen combustion engine, developed over three years with an investment of £100 million, represents a significant step towards zero-emission solutions in heavy equipment. A dedicated team of 150 engineers spearheaded the project, focusing on delivering a viable alternative to traditional fuels. The engine has already been deployed in evaluation models such as backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers, and generator sets, with advanced real-world testing underway on customer sites.
Lord Bamford, Chairman of JCB, stated “JCB has proved that hydrogen combustion is a proper zero-emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment. This formal certification clears the path for widespread adoption across Europe and sets a positive tone for the future of hydrogen technology. I am particularly proud of our British engineers who have worked tirelessly to make this possible.”
The Netherlands’ Vehicle Authority RDW was the first to issue official certification for the hydrogen engine, with other European authorities quickly following suit. The approved countries now include Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Finland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. These approvals ensure that JCB’s hydrogen engines can now be sold and operated across key markets, marking a pivotal moment in their commercialisation.
JCB has produced more than 130 evaluation engines, which are demonstrating promising results during testing. The engines are being assessed in diverse applications, proving their reliability and performance under real-world conditions. The certification aligns with increasing global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and explore hydrogen as a sustainable energy source.
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