Consultation on hydrogen powered construction vehicles

Regulations that would allow hydrogen-powered tractors, diggers and forklifts to be used on roads in Great Britain have been set out in a new consultation.

Technology and Decarbonisation Minister, Anthony Browne, said: "Allowing hydrogen-powered tractors, diggers and forklifts to use our roads is a common-sense move to help reduce emissions.

"These proposals are an important part of our plan to decarbonise transport in the UK, with skilled jobs in British companies helping roll out this cutting-edge hydrogen technology, making it more affordable and commonplace."

The launch of the consultation comes after the government issued construction equipment manufacturer JCB with a vehicle special order last year, giving the company permission to test its hydrogen-powered diggers on UK roads.

The proposals will expand this permission permanently across the sector, meaning manufacturers can more easily scale up production of sustainable equipment where battery electric power is not practical.

The consultation will run for 4 weeks, closing on 24 April 2024.