Germany has found a way to replace the diesel trains that run in Lower Saxony, one of the country’s states, with the aim of offering an alternative that is not only much more sustainable, but also less noisy. As of September five all-hydrogen trainswhich emit only steam and water condensate and therefore do not emit CO2.
The trains, developed by the French company ALstom, are capable of reaching 1000 kilometers on one charge of a hydrogen tankwhich makes it possible to pass the daily route of the Lower Saxony railway network without problems and, therefore, to recharge the tank once a day at the hydrogen filling station built by the German gas company Linde.
Hydrogen trains are also significantly more efficient and environmentally friendly compared to diesel trains. In fact, and according to data provided by ALstom, one kilogram of hydrogen will replace approximately 4.5 liters of diesel fuel.
Hydrogen trains to replace diesel trains on non-electrified rail networks
At the moment, five hydrogen trains are already running in Germany between lines connecting Cuxhaven, Bremerhaven, Bremerwerde and Buxtehude. These, in addition, they have replaced five of the 15 diesel trains that make this run.. 9 more models are expected to be added in the coming months to replace the rest of the most polluting models.
It is without a doubt an interesting and sustainable alternative for those rail networks that are not yet electrified. In fact, there are over 4,000 diesel trains in Germany alone. The hydrogen trains developed by ALstom have another important advantage: they are quieter than diesel trains.
Germany, in particular invested 8.4 million euros to cover vehicle costs. Also 4.3 million euros for Linde hydrogen filling stations. They hope to continue replacing diesel trains in Frankfurt with 27 models. ALstom has also signed contracts with countries such as Italy, where they expect to supply up to 14 models. Also in France, where 12 hydrogen trains will be delivered.
Source: Hiper Textual
