Revolutionizing Rail Freight: Class 60 Locomotive to Become Hydrogen-Powered Steam Engine
Key Ideas
  • A Class 60 diesel locomotive in the UK will be converted into a 2 MW steam locomotive powered by hydrogen, offering a zero-emission solution for heavy freight operations.
  • The project, named New Dawn, involves replacing the diesel engine with 20 high-pressure steam generators, steam turbines, and gas storage to enable green hydrogen combustion.
  • Partners like Arup, Eversholt Rail, Freightliner, and funding from Innovate UK are supporting the initiative to explore alternative zero-emission transportation options for the rail sector.
  • The innovative steam technology, developed by Steamology, aims to demonstrate the feasibility of repowering existing locomotives or integrating the system into new designs for efficient heavy-duty transport.
A groundbreaking project in the UK is set to transform a Class 60 diesel locomotive into a cutting-edge steam engine powered by hydrogen. The initiative, named New Dawn, involves converting the locomotive into a 2 MW steam locomotive by replacing the heavy diesel engine with a modern system comprising 20 high-pressure steam generators, steam turbines, and hydrogen gas storage. This conversion is expected to eliminate emissions during operation, with the possibility of utilizing green hydrogen manufactured through electrolysis using renewable energy sources. The project is led by Steamology and supported by partners such as Arup, Eversholt Rail, Freightliner, and Innovate UK. The development aims to provide a sustainable and zero-emission solution for heavy freight operations, especially in areas where electrification is not feasible. The innovative steam technology is considered energy-dense and could offer a more efficient alternative to heavy batteries in powering locomotives. The project's timeline includes detailed design work in progress, with the conversion scheduled for 2025 and subsequent trials within the next two years. Moreover, the successful demonstration of this technology could open doors for retrofitting existing locomotives with hydrogen-powered systems or incorporating them into new locomotive designs. The project not only highlights the potential of green hydrogen in the rail sector but also showcases the collaborative efforts of industry players to drive sustainable innovations in transportation. With a strong focus on decarbonization and energy efficiency, the initiative aims to revolutionize rail freight operations and pave the way for a greener future in heavy-haul transportation.
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