British engineering company Arcola Energy has concluded a long-term cooperation agreement with Vivarail. The parties will work together in developing a hydrogen/battery hybrid train in the United Kingdom and de-carbonising its rail sector.

Arcola Energy is focused on fuel cell research and development as well as on system engineering. The company is also experienced in developing zero-emission vehicles. At the same time, Vivarail has designed and manufactured the Class 230 battery-powered train.

“I’m delighted we will be working with Arcola, a company with very similar values to our own. We are both energetic and fast-moving organisations and believe that zero-emission trains are possible today and will be vital in helping the UK meet its carbon reduction targets. I look forward to seeing new clean, green trains on the network in the near future,” CEO of Vivarail Adrian Shooter said.

Concept train

The trials of the Vivarail’s concept of a hybrid train are scheduled for late 2019/early 2020. The two-car vehicle was designed to accept different power sources. The train will be equipped with one housing two-battery modules and one with fuel cell and tanks. The concept train will demonstrate the system capability and test performance. “The proof of concept train is a great opportunity to see our technology, already proven in road transport, make the transfer to rail to help accelerate the adoption of zero-emissions and low carbon trains,” CEO of Arcola Energy Ben Todd noted.

Also read:

• ‘Battery trains – a good alternative to diesel trains or electrification of railway lines’
• UK hydrogen train concept unveiled