Source: THB
Context: India successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai.
- This move is part of the government’s larger vision to introduce 35 hydrogen trains under the ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ scheme.
About Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car:
- What is a Hydrogen Train?
- A hydrogen train is powered by hydrogen fuel cells, which generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water and heat.
- Developed By: Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, under Indian Railways, with technical oversight from Northern Railways.
- Objective: To replace diesel locomotives with eco-friendly hydrogen alternatives, especially on heritage and non-electrified routes, and reduce railways’ carbon footprint by 2030.
- How It Works?
- Hydrogen fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity to power traction motors. Batteries store excess energy, and regenerative braking enhances efficiency.
- Key Features:
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- Power Capacity: 1200 HP — world’s most powerful hydrogen train engine.
- Coach Configuration: 10-car rake vs. global average of 5.
- Emissions: Zero-emission and produces only water vapour.
- Cost Efficiency: ₹80 crore/train and ₹70 crore/route for infrastructure.
- Pilot Route: Jind–Sonipat (Haryana) selected for initial operations.
- Significance:
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- Global Leadership: Puts India among global pioneers in hydrogen rail technology.
- Net-Zero Vision: Supports Indian Railways’ 2030 decarbonisation target.
- Green Economy Push: Can extend to trucks, tugboats, and heavy industry.
