Developed by the CRRC Group, a major player in the rail industry, the world’s first hydrogen-powered tram is being exported to Malaysia. This is China’s first major export contract in the hydrogen industry.

The hydrogen-powered tram was developed in Zuzhou, Hunan province, where the Group has a research center for electric locomotives. It boasts a range of 245 km, thanks to a high-power fuel cell and hydrogen storage at 700 bar. It has the advantage of a longer range and rapid refuelling time. This tram, which runs on tires, does not require the installation of catenaries, since electrical energy is generated directly on board. And it doesn’t need rails either.

A hydrogen tram on dedicated tracks at 70 km/h

The CRRC Group has won the contract for the city of Kuching, the capital of Sarawak in Malaysia. This contract is about 38 trams which will be deployed on dedicated tracks, where they will be able to travel at 70 km/h. The Autonomous Rapid Transit project involves the construction of three lines (the equivalent of 70 km). You can find out more on the Sarawak metro website.

The first unit, which was shipped from Zuzhou on July 20, is due to be tested for three months before being commissionned.

The switch to hydrogen is becoming increasingly noticeable in China among heavy mobility players. This is in line with the objectives set by the authorities in the name of the energy transition. It is also becoming an economic asset. It should be noted, however, that other competitors are working on hydrogen-powered trams, such as Hyundai.

Do you want to learn more about hydrogen tram and China? Then our latest 2 articles on the subject should interest you. You can read them here and there. 

Article written by Laurent Meillaud and translated by Logan King