## Japan's First Hydrogen Hybrid Train Takes to the Tracks
On February 28th, 2023, the media witnessed the test run of Japan's first hydrogen hybrid train, the Hybari, on the JR Tsurumi Line in Kanagawa Prefecture. This innovative train, powered by electricity generated from hydrogen, represents a significant step in East Japan Railway Co.'s (JR East) initiative to decarbonize railroads, with the ambitious goal of commercialization by fiscal 2030.
The Hybari boasts a unique design, featuring a fuel cell that generates electricity through the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen, along with storage batteries. This collaborative effort between JR East, Toyota Motor Corp. (known for the Mirai fuel cell vehicle), and Hitachi (a leading provider of storage batteries) marks a significant milestone in sustainable transportation.
Since March 2022, JR East has been diligently conducting test drives of the Hybari. The February 28th test run, held between Tsurumi and Ogimachi stations, offered the media a glimpse into the future of rail travel. Replacing the traditional pantographs that draw electricity from overhead lines, the two-car Hybari features a hydrogen tank with a capacity of approximately 1,000 liters mounted on its roof.
Inside the train, a real-time monitor displays the source of power for the motors and lighting, switching between the fuel cell and the battery depending on acceleration and deceleration. This transparency highlights the dynamic nature of the Hybari's power system.
JR East currently operates diesel trains on 23 of its 66 non-electrified lines, lacking the necessary power lines. The Hybari presents a promising solution, aiming to replace these diesel trains and contribute to a cleaner environment. However, extending the train's range beyond its current limit of 140 kilometers remains a key challenge.
Meanwhile, Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai) is pursuing an alternative approach to railcar decarbonization, developing trains that utilize hydrogen engines to power their motors instead of diesel engines. Both initiatives demonstrate the commitment of Japan's railway companies to embrace sustainable solutions for the future.