The world’s first hydrogen-powered urban train has successfully completed a test run at a speed of 160 km/h in China.
According to China News, on March 21, the world’s first hydrogen-powered urban train completed its operational test at a speed of 160 km/h in Changchun (Jilin Province, Northeast China).
The train was developed by the Changchun Railway Passenger Transport Company, a subsidiary of China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC).
The train consists of 4 carriages and has a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h. Unlike traditional trains that rely on fossil fuels or electric wire systems for power, the urban train being tested in China features an integrated hydrogen power system, capable of providing a powerful and long-lasting energy source.
During the test, the train’s average energy consumption was 5 kWh/km, which is comparable to the leading world speeds of clean energy trains, with a maximum travel range of over 1,000 km.
This test confirmed that the train can operate in temperatures ranging from -25 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius, meeting design requirements and achieving internationally recognized standards.
The successful completion of the hydrogen-powered urban train test marks a breakthrough for China in applying hydrogen energy in the railway transport sector.
China has ambitious plans to promote the development of the hydrogen energy sector. By 2025, the country expects to have around 50,000 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and aims for annual hydrogen production from renewable energy to reach 100,000 to 200,000 tons.
