SPAIN: The first hydrogen fuel cell modules have been delivered to the Centro Nacional del Hidrogeno for testing ahead of integration into a RENFE Class 463 Civia electric multiple-unit built by CAF.
The demostrator is being developed as part of the EU-funded European FCH2Rail hydrogen power project, which aims to replace the use of diesel in rolling stock with emissions-free bi-mode technologies for operation on non-electrified lines.
Toyota Motor Europe is to supply six fuel cell modules, derived from those used in its latest Mirai car. After initial testing of three of the modules at CNH2’s laboratories, all six will be sent to CAF in mid-February for installation in the demonstrator.
The modules will be incorporated into a hybrid powerpack that can be fed from overhead electrification, fuel cells and a battery. Toyota has designed the modules to be as flat as possible so that they can be integrated onto the roof of the train.
Once integration testing is complete, functional tests and trial runs will take place in Spain and Portugal with the aim of determining whether fuel cells offer a viable traction option.
