LATVIA: A memorandum of understanding for the production of a hydrogen fuel cell powered locomotive using components from an outdated ČME3 diesel shunting locomotive was signed on August 11 by representives from national railway LDz, Czech locomotive manufacturer CZ Loko and Canadian fuel cell specialist Ballard Power Systems.
The participants in the project envisage that the rebuilt locomotive would offer reduced noise and vibration, along with no exhaust emissions at the point of use.
LDz and CZ Loko have previously co-operated to develop the rebuilt ČME3M diesel shunting and 2M62 main line freight locomotives.
The rebuilding is to be undertaken by LDz Ritošā Sastāva Serviss, with CZ Loko developing the designs and providing components and Ballard Power Systems supplying the hydrogen fuel cell technology. The Latvian Academy of Sciences will provide support.
