CPKC's Groundbreaking Hydrogen Locomotive Project
Key Ideas
  • Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) is leading the development of North America's first zero-emission, line-haul, hydrogen-powered locomotive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The hydrogen locomotive project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen technology in the freight-rail sector and support the transition to low-carbon equipment.
  • CPKC found that hydrogen-powered locomotives outperform battery-powered ones in terms of range, weight, charging time, and operating performance.
  • The use of modular components called 'skids' in the conversion process makes the hydrogen locomotives more maintainable and cost-effective for CPKC.
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop North America's first zero-emission, line-haul, hydrogen-powered locomotive. The project aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by CPKC's locomotive fleet, which accounts for over 90% of the company's scope I GHG emissions. By harnessing hydrogen fuel cells, the locomotives emit only water vapor and warm air, aligning with CPKC's climate change commitments. The hydrogen program not only benefits CPKC but also supports the entire freight-rail sector's transition to low-carbon equipment. Through rigorous testing and analysis, CPKC determined that hydrogen-powered locomotives outperform battery-powered ones in various aspects like range, weight, charging time, and performance in cold weather conditions. As part of the project, CPKC has converted diesel-electric locomotives into hydrogen units using modular components known as 'skids,' making the conversion process more efficient and cost-effective. The success of the hydrogen locomotive tests, with over 2,200 miles covered and more than 1,300 cars moved, showcases the potential of this technology in decarbonizing rail terminals and mainline operations. CPKC plans to expand the project by developing mobile fueling equipment and establishing hydrogen fueling facilities to support the operational needs of these innovative locomotives.
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