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Munich-based hydrogen specialist KEYOU and Japanese construction giant Komatsu have developed the world’s first 12-cylinder hydrogen internal combustion engine for large dump trucks. The project aims to replace diesel without losing power and practicality, marking a major step in cutting emissions from heavy industry.

Proof-of-concept testing is now underway at Komatsu’s Ibaraki plant in Japan. The hydrogen engine was first fired at KST in Bad Dürkheim, Germany, in early 2024, with full-vehicle testing beginning in January 2025. The trials will assess driving performance, operating hours, and fuel efficiency.

Hydrogen-Powered, Diesel-Like Performance

Unlike fuel-cell technology, KEYOU’s system burns hydrogen directly in an internal combustion engine. The truck keeps the same mechanics and torque as its diesel counterpart while eliminating carbon emissions.

Hydrogen is stored in a 700-bar tank system from Argo-Anleg, mounted near the cab to maximize fuel capacity. This setup ensures extended operating times, a key factor for construction and mining.

Komatsu’s Carbon Neutrality Goals

Komatsu has set clear emissions targets: a 50% CO₂ reduction by 2030 (compared to 2010 levels) and full climate neutrality by 2050. Taisuke Kusaba, Komatsu’s Chief Technology Officer, highlighted the project’s importance:

“With the great cooperation of KEYOU, we are pleased to announce the start of proof-of-concept tests by equipping a large dump truck with a hydrogen combustion engine. This marks a significant achievement in Komatsu’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.”

KEYOU’s Hydrogen Development

KEYOU has been advancing hydrogen combustion technology, adapting existing engines for OEMs and developing its own hydrogen truck fleet. The first 18-tonne model was handed over to German logistics firm EP Trans in late 2023.

Markus Schneider, KEYOU’s Chief Operating Officer, called the Komatsu partnership its most important off-highway project so far:

“Our partnership with Komatsu demonstrates the performance capabilities of KEYOU-inside technology under extreme conditions.”