BioNGV retrofit, hydrogen engine testing and emissions measurement: 2025, a strategic year for CRMT

From test benches to European roads, a look back at the major advances that shaped this year. 

The year 2025 was marked by innovation, driven daily by the technical expertise and commitment of our teams. We are pleased to share with you the highlights of this year, showcasing the most stimulating projects that defined CRMT’s achievements. 

Engineering office expertise: from design to type approval 

In 2025, the engineering office was fully engaged across a wide range of projects. From the engineering required to convert a CNG engine to hydrogen, to the design and manufacturing of custom chassis dedicated to pollutant emissions measurement, our teams deployed their cross-functional expertise in support of all CRMT divisions. 

For example, several team members conducted in-depth studies on the components and operation of the hydrogen supply system for a fuel cell intended for an urban cargo vehicle. 

The engineering office provides tailor-made support for projects involving a type-approval approach, from the ideation phase through to regulatory compliance. In particular, it contributed to the approval of our retrofit kit for Euro VI coaches. 

Our specialized engineers are also involved in electrical, electronic and mechanical design, working closely with our technicians to build demonstrators in our prototyping workshop. 

Type approval of the first BioNGV retrofit kit for Euro VI coaches 

This year also marks a major milestone for the company with the type approval of the BioNGV retrofit kit for IVECO Euro VI coaches. This solution represents a concrete alternative for decarbonizing passenger transport. We are already benefiting from very positive feedback from the first retrofitted vehicle, which has been in operation since the start of the school year in the Pays de la Loire region. 

This solution was primarily designed to fit into a diversified energy mix and offers a relevant alternative to electric and hydrogen retrofitting. 

Why choose BioNGV retrofit for a coach? 

Above all, for its significant environmental benefits: up to a 70% reduction in NOx emissions, 80% fewer fine particles, and a 78% reduction in CO₂ emissions after retrofit. BioNGV retrofit also offers a major economic advantage, with costs approximately 50% lower than purchasing a new coach. Financial incentive schemes are also available to further reduce investment by covering part of the kit’s cost. 

Finally, this solution combines performance with rapid deployment: up to 300 km of real-world range, with vehicle downtime limited to one to two weeks for kit installation. 

On-board emissions measurement: ISM campaigns on an international scale 

Do you know the purpose of vehicle pollutant emissions measurements? The data collected is primarily used to verify compliance with current regulations. CRMT guarantees factual, reliable and usable data, while supporting engine manufacturers in carrying out their regulatory measurement campaigns. 

This year, more than fifty heavy-duty vehicles (coaches and trucks), as well as non-road mobile machinery such as boats, excavators and agricultural tractors, were tested under real operating conditions. We measured pollutant emissions across a wide range of vehicles, providing each client with comprehensive reports tailored to their needs. 

We also conduct measurements on ISC cycles at our site. These cycles are carried out on predefined and certified routes, including urban, extra-urban and motorway sections. 

Measurement activities also involve on-site operations. Beyond interventions across France, CRMT teams conducted ISM measurement campaigns at the European level, notably in Italy, Norway, Germany and the Netherlands. 

CRMT is also involved in research and development projects. Scientifically collected data helps improve understanding of system operating mechanisms and particle formation processes. One of the year’s flagship projects was HORECHAP, aimed at quantifying non-exhaust particle emissions, particularly those related to brakes and tires. From measurement system design through to testing phases, our teams were fully engaged in this ambitious project. 

In conclusion, emissions measurement at CRMT is a comprehensive activity with diverse objectives. We support your projects from ensuring engine compliance with European regulations to measuring non-regulated pollutant emissions for scientific R&D initiatives. 

Alternative fuel engine testing: H2, CNG and more 

The engines tested and validated are intended for multiple applications, including heavy-duty vehicles and non-road machinery. Testing activities cover a wide range of services, such as: 

• R&D 

• Endurance testing 

• Component testing 

• Type approval 

• Calibration testing 

• Production conformity testing 

The engine testing team was mobilized across a broad variety of projects. Campaigns were carried out on engines running on alternative fuels such as hydrogen or B100. The team also conducted technical and endurance tests comparing the performance of different fluids, drawing on extensive experience with hydrogen engines, natural gas solutions like BioNGV, and ethanol. 

Finally, the team also offers engine engineering expertise, including the design and testing of an engine retrofitted from BioNGV to hydrogen. 

Looking ahead to 2026: accelerating the energy transition 

The year 2026 represents a major turning point for CRMT. Our ambition is to deploy our BioNGV retrofit kit on a large scale, making it an accessible and widely adopted solution on the roads, transforming a technical success into an operational reality for transport operators. 

At the same time, we aim to further expand our emissions measurement activities internationally and apply them to an ever-broader range of vehicles, supporting engine manufacturers in addressing their energy and regulatory challenges. 

Finally, CRMT will continue its commitment to innovation. We intend to contribute to new ambitious engine and vehicle engineering projects, guided by a clear priority: the concrete decarbonization of transport and the sustainable improvement of air quality. 

CRMT, a key player for cleaner powertrain solutions.