North America’s first hydrogen-powered train has embarked on a pioneering journey through the picturesque Canadian countryside this summer. The French passenger train, a short-term demonstration project set to run until the end of September, aims to ignite interest in hydrogen-powered trains in both Canada and the United States. By showcasing the capabilities of this innovative technology, the project hopes to raise awareness and promote its wider adoption.
The train, provided on loan from France, operates from Montmorency Falls in Quebec City to Baie-Saint-Paul, offering travelers a delightful two-and-a-half-hour scenic ride. With a maximum speed of 140 km/h (87 mph) and a seating capacity of up to 120 passengers in its two cars, the train, manufactured by Alstom, delivers acceleration and braking performance similar to conventional diesel-engine trains, but without the harmful emissions. This makes it particularly suitable for regions such as the Canadian countryside and vast parts of the United States, where long distances and low commuter density prevail.
The Coradia iLint, the same model that has successfully operated in eight European countries, has already gained significant traction. Last year, as many as 14 of these trains began operating in Lower Saxony, Germany. Alstom, which initiated testing of the trains in 2018, has secured additional contracts in Germany, Italy, and France, with a total of 41 trainsets ordered by European clients.
Running on approximately 50 kilograms of hydrogen per day, the Coradia iLint emits nothing but water vapor, produced as a byproduct when hydrogen combines with oxygen in its fuel cell to generate power. Although the current demo relies on a diesel-powered truck to transport hydrogen for refueling, the goal is to eventually produce hydrogen on-site to eliminate this step. Furthermore, while concerns about emissions from the train’s journey across the Atlantic and its reliance on diesel trucks exist, the project’s organizers plan to extend the train’s tour to various North American cities to promote hydrogen-train adoption across the continent. This broader adoption, if successful, could offset any carbon footprint associated with the train’s temporary transportation needs.
As the hydrogen-powered train gracefully glides through the Canadian landscape, it leaves behind more than just water vapor—it leaves a trail of inspiration and potential. With the hope of an environmentally friendly transportation future, North America eagerly embraces this demonstration, eagerly anticipating the transformative power of hydrogen trains within its own borders.
