JCB celebrates landmark government decision allowing hydrogen-fueled machinery on UK roads
Key Ideas
- JCB hails the UK government's decision to permit hydrogen-fueled construction and agricultural machinery on public roads as a historic moment in the industry.
- The Future of Roads Minister praised the collaboration with JCB, emphasizing the support for British businesses and the country's transition to net-zero emissions.
- The statutory instrument signed by Lilian Greenwood allows hydrogen-powered non-road mobile machinery to legally operate on UK roads, following significant investment and research by JCB.
- JCB has already made substantial investments in developing hydrogen engines and has received positive feedback from customers testing the technology, marking a milestone for hydrogen use in the construction and agricultural sectors.
JCB has applauded a significant decision made by the UK government to allow hydrogen-fueled construction and agricultural machinery to operate on public roads. The move has been described as historic by JCB chairman Anthony Bamford, who spearheaded a project investing £100 million in developing hydrogen combustion engines for JCB machines. This decision follows the signing of a statutory instrument by Lilian Greenwood, the Minister for the Future of Roads, enabling the use of hydrogen-powered non-road mobile machinery on UK roads. The endorsement by the government marks a pivotal moment for JCB as they have been actively working on hydrogen engine technology, receiving positive feedback from customers who have tested the machinery. Lord Bamford highlighted the simplicity and performance equivalence to diesel counterparts. The initiative is part of the UK's Plan for Change towards achieving net-zero emissions, driving innovation, creating jobs, and supporting British businesses. JCB's investments in zero-emission hydrogen engines have led to successful trials of hydrogen-powered equipment like telescopic handlers and backhoe loaders near Birmingham, with plans for further testing in collaboration with rental companies and contractors across the UK.
Topics
Homes
Environmental Impact
Innovation
Construction Industry
Zero-carbon Fuel
Business Support
Government Decision
Legislative Change
Agricultural Machinery
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