China Unveils First Hydrogen-Powered Intelligent Intercity Train at InnoTrans 2024

China debuts its first hydrogen-powered intelligent intercity train, CINOVA H2, at InnoTrans 2024. This zero-emission train offers a green alternative for nonelectrified railways, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing passenger capacity.

China has debuted its first hydrogen-powered intelligent intercity train, named CINOVA H2, at InnoTrans 2024, an international trade fair for transport technology held in Berlin. Developed by CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co Ltd, a subsidiary of China Railway Rolling Stock Corp, this groundbreaking train is set to revolutionize nonelectrified railway transport by running on hydrogen power, producing zero carbon emissions throughout its journey.

A Green Solution for High-Capacity Rail Transport

CINOVA H2 utilizes hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional diesel-powered trains. The four-car train is equipped with 960 kilowatts of fuel cell power, allowing it to travel at cruising speeds of 160 kilometers per hour (km/h), with a top speed of 200 km/h. It has an ultra-long range of 1,200 kilometers, and a full refuel takes only 15 minutes—making it a fast and efficient green transport solution for intercity routes.

According to Liang Caiguo, senior designer at CRRC Qingdao Sifang, this train can carry over 1,000 passengers, offering both high capacity and low environmental impact. The hydrogen fuel cells produce only water as a byproduct, ensuring zero carbon emissions and no air pollutants.

Environmental Impact and Resource Efficiency

CRRC Qingdao Sifang estimates that if the train operates 300,000 km annually, it could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 730 metric tons per year, which is equivalent to the carbon sequestration capacity of 37.8 hectares of forests.

The CINOVA H2 also incorporates innovative recycling technologies that convert wastewater and waste heat into resources. Water emitted from the hydrogen fuel cell reaction is purified and recycled for onboard passenger services, and waste heat from the fuel cells is used for heating during winter, further enhancing the train’s resource efficiency.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety Features

In addition to its environmental benefits, CINOVA H2 is equipped with a Smart Care integrated intelligent operation and maintenance platform, which enables intelligent fault diagnostics and maintenance decision-making, enhancing the train’s operational reliability and reducing maintenance costs.

Passengers onboard can experience a high-tech travel environment, with features such as smart interactive windows, onboard Wi-Fi, hearing assistance systems, and digital interactive screens. The train also features variable transmittance curtains that adjust light levels based on passenger preferences.

Safety is a priority for the CINOVA H2. Its hydrogen system has undergone rigorous safety tests, and the train is equipped with multiple safety protection systems, including intelligent detection and isolation protection to ensure passenger safety in various scenarios.

Transforming Passenger Transport on Nonelectrified Railways

Wang Xueliang, deputy director of CRRC Qingdao Sifang's technology center, stated that CINOVA H2 is designed for nonelectrified railway regions, offering a green alternative to traditional diesel-powered trains. By significantly reducing carbon emissions and other pollutants, the CINOVA H2 is set to drive a sustainable upgrade in passenger transport equipment, promoting greener transportation solutions.