JCB urge industry leaders to get behind landmark call for evidence

18 January, 2024

JCB chairman Anthony Bamford with one of the company’s hydrogen combustion engines

Evidence being sought on how non-road mobile machinery might be powered in the future

JCB have called on industry leaders to get behind the Government’s call for evidence on how non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) might be powered in the future.

Evidence is being sought on how NRMM might decarbonize as part of the Government’s wider net-zero ambitions. As the clock ticks down to the 26 March submissions deadline, JCB chairman Anthony Bamford has called on industry to embrace a unique opportunity to shape the future.

Lord Bamford said: ‘The call for evidence is a crucial milestone that should be taken very seriously by everyone who is affected, from trade associations to owners and users of non-road mobile machinery. This is a historic landmark for many industries, particularly the construction and agricultural sectors which JCB have supplied for nearly 80 years.

‘It is vital everyone affected engages in this process to help determine which technologies are appropriate to achieve a net-zero future. In JCB’s case, we will be highlighting the important role that hydrogen will play alongside electric technology for smaller products.’

JCB have been at the forefront of the development of super-efficient hydrogen combustion engines as part of a £100 million investment to develop a zero-carbon emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment. The company is also a leader in electric technology, which is suitable for smaller machines that do fewer hours and typically use less fuel than larger machines that have a higher energy requirement.

The call for evidence is being led by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs, and the Department for Transport. It focuses on the potential ways of decarbonizing at least 58 diverse NRMM products covering construction and agricultural equipment, and also machinery used in mines and quarries, warehousing, and logistics.

To participate in the call for evidence, click here.