Liebherr hydrogen excavator wins Bauma Innovation Award

Liebherr (German company)R 9XX H2 Hydrogen excavatorWinner of the Climate Protection category at Bauma 2022Innovation AwardThe

Liebherr works on developing alternative drivesprescription, taking a technology-neutral approach.hydrogen internal combustion engineis a technology that the group is exploring. The R 9XX H2 is Liebherr's firsthydrogen poweredcrawlerExcavatorThe prototype was developed by Liebherr-France SAS in Colmar, France. The prototype was developed by Liebherr-France SAS in Colmar, France. The machine is powered by the H966 hydrogen internal combustion engine. It was produced at Liebherr Machines Bulle SA, the Liebherr Group's engine technology center in Fribourg, Switzerland.

In terms of power, dynamics and responsiveness, the R 9XX H2 Hydrogen Excavator has no advantage over any conventionally powered machine, the company says. It also doesn't rely on constantrenewable energySupply. Emissions are different: On a “tank-to-wheel” basis, i.e. when used on construction sites, hydrogen excavators emit virtually no CO2. “From cradle to grave”, i.e. from production to decommissioning, the CO2 emissions are lower than those of comparable conventionally powered excavators 70%. With a working weight of 50 tons, the R 9XX H2 is suitable for use in extreme temperatures, shocks and dusty conditions on construction sites, providing a powerful solution for future earthmoving and quarrying applications.

The engine has six cylinders and utilizes port fuel injection (PFI) technology, which Liebherr uses in itshydrogen engineThis technology, as well as direct injection (DI) technology, is used in the engine. Liebherr's Component Products division plans to start series production of hydrogen engines by 2025.