A groundbreaking innovation unveiled at the Bauma 2025 expo in Munich could redefine the future of internal combustion engines. The German-Swiss technology group Liebherr presented a revolutionary engine that runs on ammonia — not petrol, diesel, or electricity — and produces zero CO₂ emissions
Ammonia, a compound commonly used in fertilizers and refrigeration, has emerged as a highly promising green fuel alternative. The new Liebherr engine, designed primarily for heavy-duty applications like construction sites and remote mining operations, could breathe new life into combustion engines in areas where electric systems still struggle due to logistical limitations.
The ammonia engine operates through a dual-system mechanism. It uses ammonia as the primary fuel, which also acts as a carrier for green hydrogen — hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources. Ammonia is significantly easier to store and transport than pure hydrogen, making it a more practical option for large-scale use.
To ignite ammonia, temperatures must reach around 650°C, much higher than for conventional fuels. This challenge is overcome by extracting a small amount of hydrogen directly from the ammonia via an onboard catalyst. This hydrogen enables ignition without the need for fossil fuels, resulting in an entirely CO₂-free combustion process.
Though not currently intended for passenger vehicles, the Liebherr innovation signals a seismic shift in energy technology for heavy industries. If proven effective under harsh operational conditions, the ammonia engine could eventually be adapted for road transport, especially in regions lacking robust EV charging infrastructure.
The Bauma expo, renowned for showcasing global innovations in construction and mining equipment, has once again proven to be a platform for technological disruption. With growing pressure to decarbonize industry and transportation, ammonia may hold the key to sustainable mobility without abandoning combustion entirely.
