The former ScotRail train has been converted from overhead power to fully hydrogen powered by Ballard Motive Solutions, ScotRail, the University of St Andrews, Arup and Angel Trains. The testing of the train will continue into Autumn.
The start of the testing program follows ScotRail’s announcement that it plans to replace 65% of its train fleet by 2035 and therefore decarbonize its entire train fleet helping the Scottish Government deliver a key milestone in transitioning Scotland to a net zero economy. All existing diesel trains will be withdrawn and replaced with new trains powered by overhead electric wires, batteries, or hydrogen.
At the core of the Scottish Hydrogen Train project is the conversion and upcycling of a retired Class 314 electric multiple unit to a newly classified Class 614 hydrogen-powered train. Ballard’s powertrain platform incorporates an efficient electric powertrain with the high energy density of hydrogen to deliver twice the practical range of battery-only solutions. The production of green hydrogen means that the train runs entirely on locally sourced renewable energy.
The Scottish Hydrogen Train was first showcased in November 2021 at COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland.
Footage of the train running under hydrogen power has been posted on YouTube by David Horne, engineering inspector of the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway: