Friday, 10 March 2023 11:55

JCB hydrogen engine set for global debut

Written by  Mark Daniel
A hydrogen internal combustion engine is already powering prototype versions of a Loadall telescopic handler. A hydrogen internal combustion engine is already powering prototype versions of a Loadall telescopic handler.

JCB is getting ready for the international debut of its super-efficient hydrogen combustion technology with a debut in North America.

JCB’s new hydrogen combustion engine, the company’s zero-carbon emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment, will be showcased at the Conexpo 2023 show in Las Vegas in March, as part of the International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE).

The project, driven by JCB chairman Lord Bamford, has seen the JCB engineering team make enormous strides in a relatively short time, to develop a hydrogen internal combustion engine that is already powering prototype versions of a company backhoe loader and a Loadall telescopic handler.

As the first construction equipment company to develop a fully working combustion engine fuelled by hydrogen, the company leads the way in environmental, social and governance (ESG) for the construction equipment sector, while also having been responsible for a series of industry innovations on its ‘Road to Zero’.

JCB developed the world’s first batteryelectric mini excavator and went on to focus on electric technology development to meet customers’ demands for zero-carbon products with its E-TECH range, said to be the largest electric line-up available in the construction industry.

JCB’s commitment to reducing emissions started almost 25 years ago and today its latest diesel engines have already delivered a 97% reduction in NOx emissions since 1999 and a 98% reduction in particulates. JCB’s diesel-powered machines also emit 50% less CO2 compared with those manufactured in 2010.

Other manufacturers are also committed to exploring alternative power sources, with French company Manitou, known for its telescopic handlers and fork trucks, appearing to favour an electrical drive train, with two initiatives being driven to this end.

The first centres around developing a hydrogen-powered telehandler prototype, initially targeted at the construction industry. Unlike JCB, the French company is pursuing hydrogen fuel cell technology, said to be a far more efficient method of releasing the energy than combustion.

Lord Anthony Bamford FBTW

JCB chairman Lord Anthony Bamford.

This method produces power directly from the fuel cell without the need for generators to convert mechanical energy to electricity, but they are expensive due to the need for a platinum catalyst within the cell. At this point platinum supplies are very limited so carry a high price.

Manitou is also researching the possibility of using batteries to power its electrically driven machines and has invested in a battery fabrication company.

EasyLi, based in Poitiers, Central France, is described as “a specialist in the design and production of mass produced and custom-built lithium-ion batteries”.

By purchasing 87% of the company, Manitou has acquired specific skills in the context of its energy transition strategy, alongside securing the ability to design and build its own batteries rather than relying on third party providers.

More like this

Agco invests in Finnish engine plant

While Nokia is more likely recognised for mobile devices, a major investment of €70m (NZ$126m) by global farm machinery brand AGCO at its facility in Linnavuori, in Nokia, will see the plant establish a new laboratory for testing combustion engines running on alternative fuels, alongside a range of electric solutions, including hybrids, fuel cells and high-voltage battery technology.

Factory clocks up 60 years

There can't be many heavy metal fans who haven’t heard of Basildon, situated about 40km east of London and originally created in 1948 to deal with the population boom after the Second World War.

Polaris unveils XD 'truck'

Think of a RAM 1500 or a Chevrolet Silverado and compare them to a Ranger or a Hilux: One is obviously a truck, and the other is a ute.

Temporary slurry tanks – cheap, easy to install

With effluent management never far from the thoughts of legislators and farmers becoming increasingly aware of the nutrient values of dairy effluent, innovate ideas for the convenient storage and subsequent discharge are always of interest.

Featured

Vaccinate against new lepto strain

A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.

TV series to combat food waste

Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.

National

Frontline biosecurity 'untouchable'

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard has reiterated that 'frontline' biosecurity services within Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) will not be cut…

Machinery & Products

New name, new ideas

KGM New Zealand, is part of the London headquartered Inchcape Group, who increased its NZ presence in August 2023 with…

All-terrain fert spreading mode

Effluent specialists the Samson Group have developed a new double unloading system to help optimise uphill and downhill organic fertiliser…

» Latest Print Issues Online

Milking It

Plant-based bubble bursts

OPINION: Talking about plant-based food: “Chicken-free chicken” start-up Sunfed has had its valuation slashed to zero by major investor Blackbird…

» Connect with Dairy News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter