King Charles Visits JCB to Celebrate 80 Years and Hydrogen Innovation
His Majesty The King Explores JCB’s Hydrogen-Powered Future on 80th Anniversary Visit
His Majesty The King was given a firsthand look at the future of hydrogen-powered machinery during a visit to JCB’s World Headquarters in Rocester as part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations. The visit highlighted JCB’s advancements in hydrogen technology, with The King inspecting one of the first hydrogen-powered diggers and learning about its quick and efficient refuelling process.
The tour also marked another historic achievement for JCB – the production of its one-millionth backhoe loader, a machine that revolutionised the construction industry by replacing manual labour with mechanised earthmoving.
JCB’s Commitment to Hydrogen Innovation
JCB, a pioneer in the construction equipment sector, is actively developing an internal combustion engine powered by hydrogen, positioning itself at the forefront of zero-carbon fuel technology. Chairman Lord Bamford personally guided The King through the Innovation Centre, demonstrating how hydrogen power could play a vital role in the future of construction machinery.
Lord Bamford, JCB Chairman said,
It is a real honour for us all that The King has visited JCB to help us celebrate 80 years in business.
“It was also a great pleasure to show The King the progress we are making with hydrogen-powered machines. Today was an occasion that will live long in the memories of everyone who was present,”
Celebrating JCB’s Legacy and Workforce
The King’s visit also recognised JCB’s long-serving employees and apprentices, highlighting the company’s rich history and deep family ties within its workforce.
During a tour of the backhoe loader production line, The King met with apprentices, including Eleanor Pitt, one of JCB’s first female welding apprentices, and fitted a wheel to a JCB digger. His Majesty also engaged with Richard Williams, a JCB veteran of 38 years, whose family has served the company for over 100 years combined.
In the main reception, The King was greeted by long-serving employees and families with decades of service to JCB. Notably, Ken Harrison, aged 100, one of the original team members who produced the first JCB backhoe loaders in 1953, was in attendance, alongside his relatives who have amassed over 350 years of service.
The visit concluded with The King unveiling a commemorative plaque before stepping outside to be met by thousands of cheering JCB employees, waving flags in celebration of the company’s remarkable milestones.
JCB’s Future: Innovation and Sustainability
JCB continues to push the boundaries of sustainable construction equipment, with hydrogen technology forming a key part of its zero-carbon strategy. As the company moves forward into its ninth decade, its commitment to innovation and workforce heritage remains stronger than ever.
For more details about JCB’s hydrogen developments and 80th-anniversary celebrations, visit www.jcb.com.
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King Charles Visits JCB to Celebrate 80 Years and Hydrogen Innovation ,source
