Hydrogen trains, also known as hydrail, are gaining momentum as a sustainable and eco-friendly mode of rail transportation. These innovative trains use hydrogen as an energy source, converting its chemical energy into mechanical power through either combustion or fuel cell reactions. With a growing global concern over pollution caused by conventional fuel-powered vehicles, the demand for alternative fuel options like hydrogen trains is on the rise.
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Global Efforts to Curb Pollution
The increase in global pollution levels and the resulting impact on rising temperatures have spurred governments and regulatory bodies to take corrective actions. This has led to the adoption of alternative fuel-powered vehicles, including electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered trains. Trains are known for their cost-efficiency and fuel economy, making them an attractive option for transportation.
Meeting Climate Goals
Governments worldwide are aligning their transportation strategies with the goals of the Paris Agreement, signed by 195 countries in 2016. This international accord aims to reduce global emissions and limit global temperature increases to well below 2 degrees Celsius. In response to these initiatives and heightened public awareness, the demand for hydrogen trains is expected to grow. A notable advantage of hydrogen trains is their ability to eliminate the need for expensive overhead electric cables, reducing overall construction costs.
Overcoming Diesel-Powered Challenges
Many countries still rely heavily on diesel-powered trains, which contribute significantly to pollution. Electric trains offer a cleaner alternative but require costly overhead electric rails. Hydrogen-powered trains do not have this overhead infrastructure requirement, making them a more cost-effective and sustainable option for rail transportation.
Segmenting the Market
The global hydrogen trains market can be segmented by train type, grade of automation, and application. The market’s train types range from suburban trains to passenger and freight trains. Higher grades of automation offer increased safety and performance, with levels 1 and 2 gaining traction due to their moderate costs.
Passenger and Freight Applications
While hydrogen-powered engines are primarily incorporated into passenger trains, their advantages make them a compelling choice for freight applications as well. This versatility positions hydrogen trains as a solution for a wide range of rail transportation needs.
Regional Growth
Europe, with its substantial number of diesel-powered locomotives, is actively moving towards eliminating diesel trains to combat pollution. This shift in focus is expected to drive the adoption of hydrogen-powered trains as a greener alternative. The UK, for example, has already signed a deal with hydrogen train manufacturer Alstom S.A. to replace 100 diesel engine vehicles with hydrogen trains by 2022.
Key Players in the Market
Alstom S.A. is a major player in the global hydrogen trains market, with other notable contributors including Thales Group, Ansaldo STS, Mitsubishi Electric, Bombardier Transportation, Hitachi Ltd., and CRRC Corporation Limited. These key players are expected to play a crucial role in furthering the adoption of hydrogen trains worldwide.