Tech Japan's first fuel-cell train presented to public

The "Hybari" train was developed by JR East, Hitachi Ltd. and Toyota Motor Corp. Hydrogen in the tank above the train car roof is sent to fuel cells under the floor, and generates electricity through a chemical reaction with oxygen in the air. JR East intends to use the technology in the next generation of train cars as part of its goal to emit effectively zero CO2 in fiscal 2050. The blue test car exterior features a water splash design, which references the water formed in the chemical reaction. To confirm the system's performance and energy efficiency, tests will be conducted at night, about once a week, without passengers. Shoichi Oizumi, director of the JR East research and development center, said, "It uses clean energy, and will have a role in the coming age."

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Petaris said:

I'm curious what the point of this is though? Is it for lines that don't have overhead electric? Also, that service date is so far out that I feel like something far better will be available by then and not have the issues of having to refuel and do so with a very explosive gas. Also the waste water has to be considered, it will not be a great fit for colder climents.

Don't get me wrong I am not anti-fuel cell per say, I just see better options being presented.

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mdchachi said:

At least for cars, hydrogen is safer than tanks of gasoline.

I imagine this would first be targeted at the routes that still use diesel.

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