(07/07/2022)  .

This demonstrator train is based on one of Renfe's Civia units, in which a new power generation system has been installed. The system, which utilises a hybridization of energy from hydrogen fuel cells and batteries, has been integrated into the vehicle's existing traction system. This will result in a bi-mode vehicle that will be able to run in electric mode on the electrified infrastructure, while the hybrid mode will be used for operating on catenary-free sections.

To date, all the equipment making up the new Fuel Cell Hybrid Powerpack has been tested, and CAF has carried out the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic work to install it on the original Civia unit. The next stage is to conduct tests to validate the integration of this new system. Once this stage of the testing has been completed at CAF’s plant in Zaragoza, the unit will be in optimum condition to start the dynamic tests on an external track, which are planned for this summer.

European funding

The FCH2RAIL project was launched in early 2021. It has a €14 million budget, 10 million of which is being funded by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, formerly FCH2 JU, a European Commission agency dedicated to promoting the development of hydrogen and fuel cells.