Local construction giant JCB’s hydrogen-powered digger in use
We'll see it on roads and building sites
The world’s first digger, powered by a hydrogen combustion engine, will soon be on UK roads and building sites following recent government approval.
Special dispensation has been given, under a vehicle special order, that allows JCB, to test and use its world-first hydrogen-powered backhoe loader on UK roads.
Speaking on a visit to the company's HQ at Rocester in East Staffordshire, Technology and Decarbonisation Minister Jesse Norman said:
"From cars to construction sites, industry has a vital role in decarbonising our economy and creating green jobs and prosperity.
"JCB’s investment in greener equipment is a great example of how industry can make this happen, using alternative fuels to generate sustainable economic growth."
JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said:
"Securing this vehicle special order from the Department for Transport is an important first step in getting JCB machines that are powered by hydrogen combustion engines to and from British building sites using the public highway. It’s an endorsement that JCB is on the right path in pursuit of its net zero ambitions.
"JCB’s hydrogen-powered backhoe loader is a world first in our industry, a digger with a purpose-engineered internal combustion engine that uses hydrogen gas as the energy source. It’s a real breakthrough – a zero CO2 fuel providing the power to drive the pistons in an internal combustion engine, a technology that’s been around for over 100 years, a technology that we are all familiar with.
"I am delighted that the Decarbonisation Minister will witness for himself the first drive of a hydrogen-powered digger on the open road. It’s clear to me that, following this visit, he’ll appreciate the potential for hydrogen internal combustion engines to help deliver net zero targets more quickly, while adding jobs and contributing wider economic benefits to the construction sector."