JCB has revealed that its hydrogen combustion engine has received approval for commercial sale and use in machinery across Europe, following a groundbreaking decision by 11 licensing authorities on the continent. Additional countries are anticipated to grant certification later this year.
Introduced in January 2023, the engine was developed by a team of 150 engineers as part of a $103 million project. JCB claims to be the first construction equipment manufacturer to create a fully functional hydrogen-powered combustion engine.
JCB announced that the Netherlands’ Vehicle Authority (RDW) was the first licensing body to grant official certification, allowing the engine to be sold in the country. Other licensing authorities include those in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Finland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
“This is a pivotal moment for JCB,” said JCB Chairman Lord Bamford. “Starting the New Year with certification in so many European countries is a promising sign for the future of hydrogen combustion technology. In recent years, JCB has demonstrated that this is a genuine zero-emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment. This formal certification clears the way for the sale and use of hydrogen engines across the UK and Europe. I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the year. Above all, I am incredibly proud of our team of British engineers who have worked tirelessly to achieve this milestone.”
In 2015, JCB acquired a controlling stake in ITM Power, a company specializing in hydrogen energy systems and fuel cells.
In recent years, JCB has introduced several hydrogen-powered machine prototypes, including a backhoe loader, a Loadall telescopic handler, a 220X excavator, and a mobile refueler for hydrogen-powered equipment. The company reports that it has manufactured over 130 evaluation engines for these machines, which are now undergoing advanced testing at customer sites.
