FFI and DB have ambitious climate targets and are both moving as quickly as possible to remove diesel from their operations and replace it with green fuels and zero-emission solutions.
This agreement outlines a proposal for FFI to participate in DB’s research and development into a carbon free internal combustion engine, with the research having the potential to accelerate Fortescue’s Green Fleet rail delivery program.
The agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between FFI and DB, which centers on the companies’ intentions to work together collaboratively on decarbonization technology opportunities.
Fortescue founder and executive chairman, Dr Andrew Forrest AO said, “Fortescue is developing green hydrogen and green energy innovations and technology, with a specific focus on decarbonizing hard-to-abate industries. We know that cutting edge technology and real-world solutions are key to addressing climate change which is why Fortescue is partnering with Deutsche Bahn, Europe’s leading mobility and logistics provider.
“Together FFI and DB will work to reduce global emissions given the urgency to find new ways to replace fossil fuels in the transport industry,” Dr Forrest added.
DB board member for digitization and technology Dr Daniela Gerd tom Markotten continued, “We are saying goodbye to diesel and relying on the latest technologies, including the ammonia-hydrogen engine. This engine makes it possible to continue operating existing diesel vehicles without emissions. Our customers are already travelling by the most climate-friendly means of transport. By 2040, the railway will be completely climate neutral.”
FFI & DB’s partnership builds on Fortescue’s announcement in March 2022 to develop with FFI and WAE the world’s first regenerating battery electric iron ore train, pre-feasibility studies are progressing, with delivery of the first Infinity Train scheduled to be operational by the end of 2027.
“We want to seize the opportunity to support the decarbonization of the rail industry through developing multiple technologies,” Dr Forrest added. “Not every railway around the world will have as favorable topography as we do at our sites in Australia, therefore it makes sense to look at different technologies.”
Fortescue recently announced its world-leading decarbonization strategy at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, aiming to eliminate fossil fuel use and achieve real zero terrestrial emissions (Scope 1 and 2) across its iron ore operations by 2030.