JCB has achieved full EU type approval for its hydrogen combustion engine, a pivotal step forward in its hydrogen technology development program and a major milestone for the future of clean-powered non-road mobile machinery.
The certification allows JCB’s hydrogen engine to be sold and used not only in JCB machines but also by third-party original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) across EU member states and other regions that recognize EU type approvals. The approval, issued under Regulation (EU) 2016/1628, confirms compliance with EU Stage V emissions standards.
In addition to EU certification, JCB had previously received type approval for Great Britain, where the technology was initially fast-tracked for approval and has now reached full regulatory status.
“This is another very significant moment for JCB’s hydrogen program,” said JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who has personally championed the hydrogen engine project. “It wasn’t long ago that many believed the internal combustion engine had no future in Europe. I couldn’t be more proud of our team’s work in reaching this stage. Now, we’re focused on bringing our hydrogen-powered technology to market—and our customers won’t have to wait much longer.”
The approval caps nearly four years of intensive development work, backed by a £100 million (US$135 million) investment and a dedicated team of 150 engineers. To date, JCB has built over 130 prototype hydrogen engines, which are being trialed in a range of machines including backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers, and generator sets.
According to the company, real-world pre-launch testing of these hydrogen-powered machines is progressing successfully and is nearing the final stages. The technology promises to offer a sustainable path forward for heavy machinery without abandoning internal combustion—especially in industries where electrification may not yet be practical.
JCB’s hydrogen engine represents a rare alternative in the race to decarbonize construction and industrial equipment, blending established engine technology with zero-carbon fuel. With regulatory approval now in place, the company is poised to lead the deployment of hydrogen-powered machinery across Europe and beyond.