Vanguard STS is converting the UK’s first hydrogen-powered locomotive at the Severn Valley Railway depot in Kidderminster. This significant project aims to develop environmentally friendly transport solutions. Vanguard STS, a spin-off from the University of Birmingham, is marking the sustainable transformation of rail transport with this rapidly completed project. Called the HydroShunter, the hydrogen-powered locomotive embodies Britain’s contribution to green rail solutions.
Transformation of a Heritage into Modern Technology
Vanguard STS engineers are converting a three-axle Class 1959 shunting locomotive, built in 2007 and retired in 08, with an 80 kW hydrogen fuel cell from Toyota. This old diesel locomotive is being retrofitted with modern technology to become an environmentally friendly means of transport. The HydroShunter is equipped with a 250 kW electric motor and 230 kWh lead-acid batteries. This new structure allows the locomotive to provide a range of 20 hours.
Transition to Hydrogen Powered Technology
HydroShunter can reach speeds of up to 60km/h with a 24kg hydrogen tank. This is a significant step forward for UK rail transport, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen-powered systems as an environmentally friendly mode of transport. The project aims to encourage the adoption of vehicles powered by renewable energy sources to replace fossil fuels in rail transport.
With this project, Vanguard STS is taking hydrogen-powered locomotive technology even further. Since 2020, the company has also been running two HydroFlex electric train projects powered by Ballard fuel cells. These projects aim to create a greener transportation infrastructure by increasing the use of hydrogen on the railway.
The Future of Sustainable Transportation
Vanguard STS’s implementation of this project further underlines the UK’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions. Hydrogen-powered locomotives make a major contribution to environmentally friendly transport with low carbon emissions. This transformation is an important step towards the UK’s global sustainability goals. It also demonstrates that traditional methods in rail transport are being replaced by innovative solutions.
New Industry Standards and Global Impact
Kidderminster depot on the Severn Valley Railway provides an ideal environment for Vanguard STS to deliver this project. The HydroShunter’s design and technology delivers high performance whilst reducing environmental impact. The development of the locomotive could set new standards in the rail industry.
This transformation is also revitalising the UK’s rail sector. Vanguard STS is reinforcing its commitment to cleaner and more sustainable transport solutions with its innovative hydrogen-powered projects, which are further building the company’s reputation for green transport technology worldwide.
The HydroShunter is not just a conversion of a locomotive, it also reflects Britain’s commitment to reducing transport emissions and its environmental commitment. This hydrogen-powered locomotive could become a benchmark for hydrogen-powered rail projects globally, encouraging similar projects in other countries. This significant development at the Severn Valley Railway symbolises the intersection of history and modernity in rail transport.
