French rail equipment maker Alstom has unveiled its first hydrogen fuel-cell train at a trade show in Berlin. The Coradia iLint, based on the design of three of Alstom's existing diesel trains, will provide the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger rail service when it enters service in Germany next December. The trains will initially be powered by waste hydrogen produced by the local chemical industry, while on-board lithium-ion battery packs will store any power not used. The hydrogen fuelling stations needed for fuel-cell trains could provide a cheaper alternative to electrification via overhead wires or third rails.
French rail equipment maker Alstom has unveiled its first hydrogen fuel-cell train at a trade show in Berlin. The Coradia iLint, based on the design of one of Alstom's existing diesel trains, will provide the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger rail service when it enters service in Germany next December. The trains will initially be powered by waste hydrogen produced by the local chemical industry, while on-board lithium-ion battery packs will store any power not used. The hydrogen fuelling stations needed for fuel-cell trains could provide a cheaper alternative to electrification via overhead wires or third rails.