The train is based on one of Renfe’s Civia commuter trains (above), which has been retrofitted with a new power generation system. The system, which utilizes a hybridization of energy from hydrogen fuel cells and batteries, has been integrated into the vehicle’s existing traction system.
As a result, the train will become one of the first bi-mode demonstrator trains with hydrogen fuel cells. In other words, according to CAF, it will be a zero-emissions vehicle concept that will be able to run in electric mode on the electrified infrastructure, while the hybrid mode will be used for operating on catenary-free sections.
To date, the equipment making up the new Fuel Cell Hybrid Powerpack has been tested, and CAF has carried out the mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic work to install it on the original Civia unit. The next stage is to conduct tests to validate the integration of this new system, thereby converting it into a zero-emissions bi-mode train.
One of the first tests, CAF noted, will be the correct installation and integration of the new Fuel Cell Hybrid Powerpack, by checking all the interfaces and their correct operation together with the equipment already installed on the vehicle. A key milestone will also have been reached following the completion of the tightness tests on the hydrogen system, when the first hydrogen refueling can take place and hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cells.
Once this has been completed, all the energy required by the train can then be obtained through this new hybrid system. It should be noted that 100% of the hydrogen consumed during these tests is renewably sourced and is to be supplied by Spanish multinational electric utility company Iberdrola.
The start of these tests at the CAF plant confirms the considerable effort made by the consortium since the launch of the FCH2RAIL project in early 2021. FCH2RAIL is a consortium of CAF, DLR, Toyota, Renfe, Adif, CNH2, IP and FAIVELEY Stemmann Technik.
Once this stage of the testing has been completed at CAF Zaragoza, the unit will be in optimum condition to start the dynamic tests on an external track, which are planned for this summer.
The project has a budget of €14 million, €10 million of which is being funded by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, formerly FCH2 JU, a European Commission agency dedicated to promoting the development of hydrogen and fuel cells.