While electric vehicles have gained traction as an eco-friendly mode of transportation, the focus on sustainable mass transit solutions has intensified.
Electric buses have emerged as a viable option. However, trains offer unparalleled capacity to transport large numbers of passengers efficiently.
Non-electrified railway lines were previously operated using diesel vehicles. Since retrofitting overhead contact lines and substations requires large investment budgets and a lot of time, Stadler has developed zero-emission drives as an alternative. One example is the FLIRT H₂ vehicle, which runs on an electric drive with hydrogen fuel cells as the energy source. (Photo: Stadler Rail)
Shattering Records in Sustainable Transport
A Swiss hydrogen-powered train has broken records with a remarkable nonstop journey spanning 1,741 miles (2,803 km). This achievement, certified by Guinness World Records (GWR), marks a significant milestone in sustainable transportation.
FLIRT-H2 was accomplished by a hydrogen-powered passenger train car developed by Swiss manufacturer Stadler during a rigorous 46-hour test conducted at a specialized track facility in Colorado, USA.
This breakthrough underscores the potential of hydrogen-powered trains to revolutionize the future of eco-conscious mass transit systems. Electric trains have existed for a considerable time, yet they require supplementary infrastructure like overhead power lines.
Furthermore, the electricity drawn from these lines may originate from environmentally harmful sources like coal or natural gas, thus counteracting the aim of transport electrification. Here's where hydrogen-powered trains offer a solution.
The record-setting endeavor commenced on the evening of March 20, with GWR officials present to oversee the proceedings. Throughout the night and the ensuing day, Stadler engineers took turns driving the train in shifts.
Finally, at 5:23 pm on March 22, the train stopped after traversing an astonishing 1,741.7 miles (2,803 km) over 46 hours, all fueled by a single tank of hydrogen.
This remarkable achievement surpasses the FLIRT H2's advertised range of 285 miles (460 km) by a staggering sixfold.
However, it's essential to note that such a feat may not be replicable under typical operational conditions. The record-setting journey involved continuous travel without the train making multiple stops or encountering various inclines. Nonetheless, it is a compelling demonstration of hydrogen fuel's potential as a viable power source for trains.
Pioneering Hydrogen-Powered Innovation
Stadler's hydrogen-powered train is equipped with two passenger cars and a central power pack. This power pack stores hydrogen in fuel tanks and utilizes fuel cells to convert it into electricity.
Subsequently, the generated electricity is subsequently directed to a traction converter and stored in a battery, which powers the electric drive to propel the train forward.
Additionally, this configuration facilitates the recuperation of energy from the train's braking system, enhancing overall system efficiency.
Designed to accommodate 108 passengers, the two-car configuration boasts a maximum speed of 79 miles per hour (130 km/h). Notably, it is engineered to operate efficiently even in high ambient temperatures of up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
The FLIRT-H2, commissioned by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), boasts an impressive feature: it can operate seamlessly throughout the day without the need for refueling.
Currently undergoing rigorous testing at a dedicated test track in Colorado, this hydrogen-powered marvel is slated for official service introduction later this year.
Stadler, the manufacturer, sought to establish a Guinness World Record (GWR) for its performance to validate its prowess.
