JCB says it has developed a hydrogen-powered excavator.
The 20-ton 220X excavator, powered by a hydrogen fuel cell has been undergoing testing at JCB’s quarry proving grounds for over a year.
"The development of the first hydrogen fuelled excavator is very exciting as we strive towards a zero carbon world," said JCB chairman Lord Bamford. "In the coming months, JCB will continue to develop and refine this technology with advanced testing of our prototype machine and we will continue to be at the forefront of technologies designed to build a zero carbon future."
Lord Bamford’s son Jo Bamford spent 14 years at JCB before moving into the hydrogen sector, setting up Ryse Hydrogen and then buying Northern Ireland bus giant Wrightbus. He has won contracts to supply the world's first hydrogen double-decker to cities such as London and Aberdeen, Scotland.
“I truly believe hydrogen is the U.K.’s best opportunity to build a world-leading industry which creates U.K. jobs, cuts emissions and is the envy of the globe,” Jo Bamford said.
Power for JCB’s prototype excavator is generated by reacting hydrogen with oxygen in a fuel cell to create the energy needed to run electric motors. The only emission from the exhaust is water.
Source: JCB
