Testing of the world’s first hydrogen wheel loader by Liebherr and STRABAG

The L 566 H loader is the first in the world of its size to use a hydrogen engine.

Published: October 14, 2024

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Liebherr and STRABAG have taken an important step forward with the testing of the world’s first hydrogen-powered wheel loader. This project, which is being developed at the Kanzelstein quarry in Gratkorn, Austria, represents a step forward in the decarbonisation of heavy machinery in construction.

The Liebherr L 566 H prototype, a hydrogen-powered construction machine , will be evaluated over the next two years. STRABAG, one of Europe’s leading construction companies, will be the first customer to test this innovative technology. According to calculations, this wheel loader could reduce up to 100 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year – equivalent to replacing around 37,500 litres of diesel.

Wheel loader test launch — Testing of Liebherr hydrogen wheel loader with STRABAG begins. Source: STRABAG

Efficiency and zero emissions with hydrogen wheel loader

The project involves Energie Steiermark, which will supply green hydrogen to power the service station at the quarry. Hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources such as solar or hydro , is seen as a key solution for sectors that have so far been difficult to electrify, such as large machinery.

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Liebherr has designed this loader with the aim of offering a clean alternative in a sector that traditionally relies on diesel. In addition to not emitting greenhouse gases , this type of engine offers excellent efficiency and minimises the emission of other pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides.

STRABAG and Liebherr’s vision for the future

Presentation and test of the L 566 H wheel loader. Source: STRABAG

STRABAG CEO Clemens Haselsteiner has reiterated the company’s commitment to sustainability, stressing that it aims to be completely carbon neutral by 2040. To this end, the use of machinery such as the L 566 H is essential. Meanwhile, Jan Liebherr, President of Liebherr-International AG, stressed the importance of these pilot projects in promoting the use of clean technologies in the construction sector.

Leonore Gewessler, Austria’s Minister for Climate Action, welcomed the collaboration between Liebherr and STRABAG as a role model in the transition to a more sustainable construction industry.

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Source: Liebherr

Photos: STRABAG