Vanguard STS Unveils HydroShunter: Revolutionizing Locomotive Technology with Hydrogen Innovation
Key Ideas
  • Vanguard STS revealed their repowered Class 08 shunting locomotive at Severn Valley Railway, showcasing a move towards hydrogen-powered transport solutions.
  • The HydroShunter project, a collaborative effort involving Vanguard, University of Birmingham, and Severn Valley Railway, aims to set a precedent for zero-emission fuel cell locomotives in industrial sectors.
  • The HydroShunter features an 80 kW fuel cell, 230 kWh battery module, and hydrogen storage cylinders, offering a tractive effort of 250 kW and an estimated 20-hour running time between refueling.
  • Vanguard STS, known for their innovation in hydrogen technology, is poised to revolutionize the rail industry with their hydrogen and battery powertrain designs, fuel cell expertise, and commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.
Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions (STS) has made a significant advancement in locomotive technology with the unveiling of the HydroShunter at the Severn Valley Railway in the UK. The repowered Class 08 shunting locomotive, originally built in 1959, is undergoing a transformation led by Vanguard STS to operate on hydrogen power. At the initial stage, the locomotive is using lead-acid batteries charged from shore supply until the installation of an 80 kW fuel cell. This project represents a crucial step towards sustainable transportation solutions in the railway sector. The HydroShunter project, developed by Vanguard STS in collaboration with the University of Birmingham and Severn Valley Railway, aims to address the need for zero-emission locomotives in industrial and freight terminal management sectors. The innovative locomotive features a hybrid traction system with hydrogen storage cylinders, a fuel cell stack, and a battery for additional power requirements. This integration provides a tractive effort of 250 kW and an estimated running time of 20 hours between refueling. Vanguard STS's Chief Engineer, Charles Calvert, described the HydroShunter as a 'version zero' test bed to validate the concept for future production fuel cell locomotives. Despite facing challenges such as a fuel cell product withdrawal, the project is set to incorporate a revised 80 kW fuel cell from Toyota, enhancing the locomotive's operational efficiency. The HydroShunter project also underscores the importance of developing skills in sustainable transport technologies. Vanguard STS, with its expertise in hydrogen and battery powertrain designs, aims to revolutionize the rail industry by offering sustainable solutions and promoting hydrogen-powered locomotives. The company's collaboration with Severn Valley Railway and ongoing projects in Croatia demonstrate a commitment to advancing eco-friendly transportation options.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.