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Surprising Science — October 20, 2011

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Tram

The prototype of a hydrogen fuel cell tram has been built in Spain. The emission-free tram can carry 20-30 passengers at up to 20 kmh and should enter service next year.

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What’s the Latest Development?

A prototype hydrogen fuel cell tram, developed at a cost of €1m ($1.4m), has been unveiled in Spain and it is hoped that it will enter service in Asturias next year. The prototype vehicle weighs 20 tonnes and is powered by two 12 kW fuel cells, supplied with hydrogen from a rack of 12 canisters containing 105·6 m3 of the gas. It can carry between 20 and 30 passengers at up to 20 km/h.

What’s the Big Idea?

The new technology could be used on future light rail networks. And the best thing is that it is emission-free, said project leader Alberto Montes. Funding for the project was provided by the Asturias regional government. Fuel-cell-powered trams are seen as a way to provide high-quality, economical public transport in cities.

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