The FCH2RAIL hydrogen train project, led by CAF, tested on the Humanes-Talavera section to Extremadura.

The hydrogen train prototype developed in the European project FCH2RAIL (Fuel Cell Hybrid PowerPack for Rail Applications) has started a new testing and demonstration phase in the Madrid area, on the section of line Humanes-Talavera de la Reina. One of the objectives is to demonstrate its autonomy and reliability in real operating conditions with construction sites and on busy routes. Having completed 7,900 kilometres, the tests have so far been successful, and have shown that the prototype is capable of covering 804 kilometres without refuelling. The final tests will be run in Galicia and will enter Portugal.

The representatives of the Spanish Railway Safety Agency (AESF, in its Spanish acronym) were able to check first-hand that the tests were being carried out according to plan, and to verify for themselves the reliability and safety of the train.

The hydrogen train is part of the FCH2RAIL consortium, a project that started in early 2021 and is scheduled to run until the end of 2024. The consortium partners include the Spanish companies Renfe-Operadora, ADIF, CAF and the Centro Nacional de Hidrógeno / National Hydrogen Centre; the Portuguese company IP (Infraestructuras de Portugal); the German companies DLR and STT, and Toyota Motor Europe (TME), which is providing the fuel cell integration service.

Source: CNH2 - Centro Nacional del Hidrógeno and La Tribuna de Toledo