JCB Celebrates Historic Change: Hydrogen-Fuelled Machinery Hits UK Roads
Key Ideas
  • Legislation change in the UK now permits hydrogen-powered construction and agricultural machinery to use public highways.
  • JCB, investing £100 million in hydrogen combustion engines, celebrated the milestone by driving a hydrogen-fuelled backhoe loader past the Palace of Westminster.
  • Testing of hydrogen-powered equipment by JCB in partnership with rental companies and contractors across the UK is underway.
  • Chairman Anthony Bamford praises the simplicity and efficiency of JCB's hydrogen combustion engine, emphasizing the importance of this legislative milestone.
A groundbreaking change in legislation now allows hydrogen-fuelled construction and agricultural machinery to operate on UK roads. The UK-based manufacturer, JCB, has heavily invested in developing hydrogen combustion engines for its machines, marking a significant step towards a greener future. The Future of Roads Minister signed an instrument enabling the road use of hydrogen-fuelled non-road mobile machinery. JCB showcased their progress by driving a hydrogen-fuelled backhoe loader past the Palace of Westminster. Chairman Anthony Bamford commended the government's endorsement of hydrogen use, highlighting the positive feedback from customers who find the technology user-friendly and efficient. The company is currently testing various hydrogen-powered equipment in collaboration with rental companies and contractors throughout the UK. This move aligns with the UK's Plan for Change, driving innovation and job creation while advancing towards a net zero transition.
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