China Rolls out Its First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hybrid Locomotive

The first China-developed hydrogen fuel cell hybrid locomotive rolled off the production line of CRRC Datong Co., Ltd. on Wednesday in Datong City, north China's Shanxi Province. The locomotive is designed to run at a speed of 80 km per hour, with 700 kW of continuous power for 24.5 hours. Its maximum traction load on a straight track exceeds 5,000 tonnes. The locomotive uses a combination of a hydrogen fuel cell system and a high-power lithium battery. Compared with traditional fuel and electric locomotives, hydrogen-fueled hybrid locomotives are not only safer and more environmentally friendly but also quieter, cheaper and easier to maintain. The modular design of the locomotive gives it the flexibility to utilize different power levels and power modes to cater to customers' demands for multiple applications, such as operating in tunnels and mines. Founded in 1954, CRRC Datong Co., Ltd. is a core subsidiary of the CRRC, which mainly focuses on the research, manufacture and maintenance of locomotives and rolling stocks for railway transport.