JCB hydrogen engine approved for use

The JCB engine followed a £100m development and approval from licensing authorities allowing for sales across Europe.

British construction manufacturer, J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited (JCB) has announced the certification approval of its hydrogen combustion engine with aims of increasing sales across Europe.

The project which spanned three years, involved a £100m development and a team of over 150 engineers.

Through its engine approval, JCB aim to pave the way for a “zero emission solution” in the construction sector.

Lord Bamford, JCB Chairman, emphasised how this achievement can set the stage for expanded hydrogen engine sales across the UK and Europe.

Bamford said:  “JCB has proved in recent years that it is a proper zero emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment”.

“This is a very significant moment for JCB. To start the New Year with certification in place in so many European countries bodes very well for the future of hydrogen combustion technology”.

“This formal type of approval/certification paves the way for the sale and use of hydrogen engines right across the UK and Europe. I couldn’t have hoped for a better start to the year”.

Licensing across Europe

According to JCB, the Netherlands’ Vehicle Authority (RDW) were the first licensing authority to issue official certification, allowing for the engine to be sold in the Netherlands.

Other licensing bodies across Europe have followed RDW’s lead by issuing the necessary certification, including the UK, Northern Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Finland, Switzerland and Lichtenstein.

Licensing authorities in other countries are set to follow with certification during 2025.