HGmotive and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) have initiated joint testing of a hydrogen fueling system. The project features the HGmotive Prototype Tender, currently undergoing operational testing on CPKC tracks since November 2023.
The HGmotive™ Prototype Tender aims to revolutionize freight locomotives by enabling the use of hydrogen for fuel cells. This innovative approach aligns with a broader commitment to decarbonize critical transportation routes. The project adheres to safety requirements and regulations outlined by Transport Canada, The Association of American Railroads, Federal Railroad Administration, and the Department of Transportation.
As testing progresses, the HGmotive™ team is actively developing a larger capacity hydrogen tender. The prototype is slated for validation and commissioning by mid-2025, showcasing a pivotal step towards incorporating hydrogen as a sustainable and economically viable fuel source in rail transport.
HGmotive Inc. and CPKC’s collaboration reflects a shared commitment to creating a lower carbon future for the rail industry. Kyle Mulligan, CPKC Assistant Vice President, Operations Technology, emphasizes the importance of hydrogen as a locomotive fuel in achieving emission reduction goals.
North America’s emphasis on reducing railroad locomotive emissions positions hydrogen as a promising net-zero emissions alternative to traditional fuels. Hydrogen’s viability stems from its potential to address the challenges faced by battery-powered locomotives, such as weight constraints and limitations in specific rail line corridors.
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) actively collaborates on incorporating hydrogen tenders into the M-1004 Standards for Alternative Fuels for Locomotives. HGmotive’s progress in developing a commercial-ready tender marks the initial step in a series of tenders set to be produced in the coming years.
The joint venture between HGmotive Inc. and CPKC stands as a pioneering effort towards sustainable advancement in rail transportation. As hydrogen tenders undergo testing and move towards commercial line-haul operations, the rail industry is poised to witness a transformative shift towards zero-emission solutions.
