With testing taking place at a dedicated test ring in Colorado, the US, the world record journey began on March 20, 2024, and the successful attempt was completed by March 23, 2024, travelling 1,741.7 miles without refuelling or recharging.
The locomotive utilised a power pack containing fuel cells and hydrogen tanks, along with a battery to supply the vehicle drive at any time. H2 View understands Stadler’s propulsion system can allow the train to operate all day without refuelling.
The FLIRT H2 record has been achieved ahead of scheduled deliveries to the Transport Authority of the State of California. Last month (February), Caltrans placed a $127m order for six additional trains which are expected to enter revenue service in 2027.
Read more: California orders six Stadler hydrogen-powered trains for $127m
Stadler US’ CEO, Martin Ritter, claimed the company is focused on the future of rail transport with alternative drive systems, and aims to continuously develop new technologies.
“By using hydrogen as a clean energy source, we are actively contributing to environmental protection and shaping the sustainable and zero-emission travel of tomorrow,” added Ritter.
Stadler developed detailed solutions to integrate the fuel cells and hydrogen storage systems into the modern FLIRT commuter train product line for the testing. Ahead of the testing in Colorado, the solutions were tested in Switzerland.
This is the second Guinness World Record title for Stadler, after its battery-powered FLIRT Akku achieved the longest journey with a battery multiple unit in 2021, covering 224km in Germany.
Last week, a “first” home-grown hydrogen-powered urban train completed a test run at speed of 99mph in China, according to local reports.
Read more: China’s ‘first’ hydrogen-powered urban train completes test run: reports
Get up to speed on hydrogen with Class of H2
At a time when hydrogen is the new gold rush for so many investors and start-ups alike, and the skills gap risks becoming the skills gulf, H2 View’s Class of H2 presents a series of hydrogen training modules.
Our first masterclass is created to bring your hydrogen fundamentals up-to-speed, covering the basics, e-fuels and ammonia, low-carbon and green hydrogen production, turquoise hydrogen production, biomass pathways, and underground hydrogen storage.
To book your on-demand training session, click here. Or you can reach out to the Class of H2 team at +44 1872 225031 or training@h2-view.com.