COP visitors get ‘HydroFLEX’ preview
Former Class 319 has been transformed into a 'hydrogen-ready' tri-mode unit.
THE Prince of Wales and Prime Minister Boris Johnson were among visitors to take a tour of the UK’s first hydrogen-ready passenger train while it was displayed at Glasgow Central during the COP26 conference.
‘HydroFLEX’, based on a converted Class 319 EMU, was first conceived in 2018. It has been developed by engineers from the University of Birmingham’s Centre for Railway Research and Education (BCRRE) in partnership with rolling stock leasing firm Porterbrook and support from Innovate UK.
In the last three years, a detailed design of a fullyfunctional onboard hydrogen fuel cell and battery system has been developed and approved, along with a power control system. Main line testing took place in September 2020 and the hydrogen powerpack has since been modified to allow full integration into the train system.
Hydrogen operation
Porterbrook said a decision had been made not to operate the train (which can also run on electric and battery power) in hydrogen mode during the event so that those touring it could have the
“unique opportunity” to look inside the hydrogen chamber. Following the conference, safety containment walls were due to be fitted prior to fuelling and commissioning.
Containing up to 277kg of hydrogen, the chamber gives ‘HydroFLEX’ a claimed range of 300miles, and can also charge its battery packs in 15minutes. The unit retains its original maximum speed capability of 100mph.
The interior of the train was refitted with a boardroom to host guests during COP26 and also features tables and worktops made from recycled plastic. Existing seat frames have been recycled and seat coverings manufactured with an emphasis on reducing waste and the need for new materials. Porterbrook says the LED lighting system will reduce energy usage by up to 60 per cent.