Hydrogen conversion for SVR ‘08’

THE SEVERN Valley’s long-stored 08635 is set for a new life as a hydrogen-battery demonstrator loco. The Harrier Hydro-Shunter project was unveiled in April and involves the University of Birmingham and Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions. 08635 was acquired by the SVR from TJ Thomson’s Stockton scrapyard in April 2007 and subsequently spent many years stored out of sight in the carriage shed at Kidderminster awaiting restoration.

The shunter has now been moved into the diesel depot to allow the power unit to be removed and a start made on overhauling the other components that will be retained. The new traction system will feature a hydrogen fuel cell stack and storage cylinders, along with a battery to provide additional power when needed. The hydrogen will be combined with oxygen to produce electricity that will drive the existing traction motors. The cab controls are due to remain largely unchanged.

Much of the preparation work is being carried out by the SVR’s younger volunteers, enabling them to use and develop their skills. Once completed later this year, the railway will use the reengineered Class 08 to carry out emissions-free shunting.