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 combination of a fuel cell, which generates electricity through the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen, and storage batteries. This joint development project between JR East, Toyota Motor Corp. (known for the Mirai fuel cell vehicle), and Hitachi (a leading provider of storage batteries) marks a significant collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable transportation.
Since March 2022, JR East has been diligently conducting test drives of the Hybari. The media was recently granted a glimpse of this revolutionary train in action during a test run between Tsurumi and Ogimachi stations.
Replacing the traditional pantographs that collect electricity from overhead wires, the two-car Hybari features a hydrogen tank with a capacity of approximately 1,000 liters located on its roof. A monitor inside the train provides real-time information on the power source, displaying whether the motors and lighting are being powered by the fuel cell or the battery, depending on the train's acceleration and deceleration.
JR East's vision for the Hybari extends beyond a mere test run. The company aims to replace its diesel trains, which currently operate on 23 non-electrified lines lacking power lines, with this environmentally friendly alternative. However, extending the train's range beyond its current limit of 140 kilometers remains a key challenge.
While JR East focuses on hydrogen hybrid technology, Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai) is pursuing a different approach to railcar decarbonization. They are developing trains that utilize hydrogen engines to power the motors directly, eliminating the need for diesel engines.
The Hybari's successful test run marks a promising step towards a greener future for Japan's railway system. As the technology continues to evolve and challenges are overcome, the Hybari and similar innovations hold the potential to revolutionize the way we travel, leaving a cleaner and more sustainable footprint on our planet.