Komatsu has developed a concept machine, equipping its flagship large dump truck (the HD785) with a hydrogen combustion engine. The truck has a maximum payload of approximately 92 metric tons. Testing has commenced at Komatsu’s Ibaraki Plant in Hitachinaka City, Japan. The hydrogen combustion truck is the result of a partnership with German startup company KEYOU, which has developed retrofit hydrogen engines to convert diesel engines.
The concept machine is equipped with a hydrogen combustion engine and hydrogen tank system, which are co-developed by Komatsu and KEYOU. The hydrogen tank is mounted on a platform beside the operator’s cab to maximize hydrogen storage capacity. Additionally, to ensure clear visibility for the operator, cameras and monitors have been newly installed both inside and outside the cab. The proof-of-concept tests will focus on evaluating driving performance, continuous operating hours, fuel efficiency, and verifying safety measures related to high-pressure hydrogen gas usage.
The engine differs from hydrogen fuel-cell technology. Hydrogen fuel cells use hydrogen to create electricity to fuel an electric engine. In contrast, a hydrogen combustion engine is similar to other internal combustion engines and uses hydrogen as fuel.
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