Engineering the Hydrogen Supply System for the JCB Hydromax
Supporting equipment manufacturer JCB as a development partner, Poppe + Potthoff contributed to the JCB Hydromax, a hydrogen-powered vehicle created for the attempt to set a new world land speed record at Bonneville Speed Week 2026. As part of the project, Poppe + Potthoff developed and integrated key components of its modular TOPAQ hydrogen supply system, which delivers hydrogen to the vehicle’s two hydrogen internal combustion engines. From concept development and validation testing to complete vehicle integration, Poppe + Potthoff applied its expertise in hydrogen system integration, enabling a safe, efficient and high-performance hydrogen supply architecture for the vehicle.
Key Components of the Hydrogen Supply System within the JCB Hydromax:
Parallel Charging Unit (PCU)
The Parallel Charging Unit combines the hydrogen from the vehicle’s two storage tanks into a single, reliable supply for the engines. It also serves as the central interface for the refueling process by safely distributing hydrogen to both tanks during filling. Manufactured from Poppe + Potthoff’s specially developed PPH2 material, the PCU features integrated pressure and temperature sensors to ensure maximum safety and system reliability.
High Pressure Lines and Interfaces
The High Pressure Lines and Interfaces enable the safe transport of hydrogen throughout the vehicle. Manufactured from PPH2 and based on a proven metal-to-metal sealing concept according to ISO 2974 and ISO 13296, they enable fast and efficient assembly, high vibration resistance, and reliable performance under the extreme conditions of a land speed record attempt.
High Pressure Regulation Unit (HPRU)
The High Pressure Regulation Unit precisely controls hydrogen pressure and mass flow according to engine load. By integrating multiple functions into one compact unit, it reduces system complexity while ensuring a stable hydrogen supply, even during sustained high-speed operation, continuous full load, and the demanding environmental conditions at Bonneville.
Engineering Expertise from Concept to Integration
From the initial concept phase through component engineering, development, validation and complete vehicle integration, Poppe + Potthoff supported the hydrogen supply system for the JCB Hydromax. During the development and validation phase, additional Poppe + Potthoff technologies, including the On Tank Valve (OTV), contributed to the successful validation of the hydrogen system. Following successful rig testing, the hydrogen supply system was integrated into the vehicle in preparation for its world record attempt at Bonneville Speed Week.
With the JCB Hydromax now prepared for Bonneville Speed Week 2026, Poppe + Potthoff looks forward to seeing JCB take on this exciting challenge. This successful collaboration demonstrates the value of close engineering partnerships in advancing hydrogen technologies.