To enhance operator visibility, Komatsu has equipped the machine with cameras and monitors both inside and outside the cab. Upcoming proof-of-concept tests will assess driving performance, continuous operation duration, fuel efficiency, and safety protocols for handling high-pressure hydrogen gas.
Hydrogen combustion engines offer advantages over batteries and hydrogen fuel cells for construction and mining equipment. They utilize existing diesel power-train components, reducing costs. Emitting nearly zero CO2, these engines have attracted interest from mining customers seeking carbon-neutral solutions. However, challenges remain, including safety management and hydrogen supply infrastructure. Komatsu plans to address these through partnerships with industry associations and stakeholders.
As part of its mid-term management plan, Komatsu aims to cut CO2 emissions from its products and production operations by 50% by 2030, compared to 2010 levels, with a long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. The company has already launched hydraulic excavators, tethered electric hydraulic excavators, and small to medium-sized battery-powered hydraulic excavators.
Komatsu is also exploring diverse technologies to meet environmental goals. These include carbon-neutral fuels, power supply systems for battery-equipped machinery, hydrogen fuel cell excavator tests, and a power-agnostic truck. Through in-house innovation, open collaboration, and strategic alliances, Komatsu seeks to address varied ecological demands.
The collaboration with KEYOU began leveraging the startup’s expertise in hydrogen engine development. The concept machine’s design prioritizes functionality, with the hydrogen tank placement ensuring maximum capacity while maintaining safety and efficiency. Tests scheduled in the near future will provide data on the engine’s performance in real-world conditions.
Customers in the mining sector value the potential of hydrogen engines to lower emissions without requiring significant equipment overhauls. Komatsu’s approach balances innovation with practicality, adapting existing technology to meet modern environmental standards. The company remains focused on overcoming logistical hurdles, such as establishing a reliable hydrogen supply chain, to make this technology viable.
Komatsu’s broader strategy includes a mix of power solutions tailored to different operational needs. From electric and battery-powered equipment to hydrogen-based systems, the company is diversifying its offerings. This multifaceted effort reflects Komatsu’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while supporting the construction and mining industries’ transition to sustainable practices. Through ongoing research and partnerships, Komatsu continues to pursue carbon neutrality with a focus on reliability and performance.
