On February 28th, Japan unveiled its first hydrogen hybrid train, Hybari, on the JR Tsurumi Line in Kanagawa Prefecture. This train is a significant step in East Japan Railway Co.'s (JR East) efforts to decarbonize railroads, aiming for commercialization by fiscal 2030.
Hybari utilizes a fuel cell that generates electricity through the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen, supplemented by storage batteries. The train was developed in collaboration with Toyota Motor Corp., known for its Mirai fuel cell vehicle, and Hitachi, a provider of storage batteries.
JR East has been conducting test drives of Hybari since March 2022. The February 28th test run between Tsurumi and Ogimachi stations showcased the train's capabilities to the media. The two-car Hybari features a hydrogen tank with a capacity of 1,000 liters on its roof, replacing the traditional pantographs that draw electricity.
Inside the train, a monitor displays real-time information on the power source for motors and lighting, indicating whether the fuel cell or battery is being utilized based on acceleration and deceleration.
JR East operates diesel trains on 23 of its 66 non-electrified railroad lines, and Hybari is intended to replace these trains. However, the current range of Hybari is limited to 140 kilometers, and extending this range remains a challenge.
In parallel with JR East's efforts, Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai) is pursuing the development of railcars that utilize hydrogen engines to power their motors, replacing diesel engines.