Siemens, a German technology company, is planning testing using hydrogen-powered trains with a range of 1,000 kilometers. The company considers the technology to be an emission-free alternative on routes lacking overhead power connections, among other things.
This is what Siemens Mobility CEO Michael Peter said at the Reuters Next conference.
“Trains that use hydrogen to charge an onboard electric battery will be able to significantly improve their range,” Peter says. “After all, a train’s independent propulsion is limited to around 100 kilometers with a battery.”
“However, because hydrogen is used in the trains, they may be used for long-distance journeys on lines without an overhead power line.”
“We have the instruments to get to zero emissions,” Peter claims. “At that point, it’s no longer possible to talk just about the lowest operational costs. It’s equally important to talk about the costs of releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Those are enormous sums.”
“Hydrogen can also be incorporated into rail transport at a lower cost and at a far faster rate than it can be introduced into truck transport.” After all, with rail transportation, a vast network of filling stations is not required to provide optimal supply.”
Diesel engines have to be utilized on railway lines that did not have an electric catenary till now. “That power source emits a lot of dangerous fumes,” Peter claims.
“Over the next 15 years, there will be 20,000 locomotives on the road in Europe that can be replaced by hydrogen-powered alternatives.” The trains are capable of reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h.
“The technology, which Siemens will test in Germany next year, will make a significant contribution to society’s environmental aims,” Peter says. “About 80% of rail traffic already travels on electrified lines, which are 100 percent sustainable.”
“Even if it is often diesel-powered, the remaining 20% of this mass transportation is less environmentally harmful than driving a single automobile.” If we are to meet the climate targets, all modes of transportation must strive for 100 percent sustainability.”
The cost of the trains was not disclosed by Siemens Mobility. Hydrogen-powered trains are more expensive than electric trains, however, the higher upfront cost can be mitigated by a longer lifespan.
For four decades, hydrogen trains can travel 400,000 kilometers each year. “Moreover, considerable sections can be recycled thereafter.”
