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Furthest distance achieved by a hydrogen-powered passenger train without refueling, Stadler’s FLIRT H2 sets world record

September 30, 2024

Pueblo, Colorado, United States--Stadler's hydrogen-powered train, the FLIRT H2, covered an impressive distance of 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers), at the ENSCO test center in Pueblo, Colorado, without the need for refueling or recharging, thus setting the new world record for the Furthest distance achieved by a hydrogen-powered passenger train without refueling or recharging, according to the WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.

"Stadler, a leading European company specializing in innovative rail technology, proudly announces a new achievement with its hydrogen-powered train, the FLIRT H2, securing a Guinness World Records title for the longest distance traveled without refueling or recharging. Covering an impressive 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers), this milestone underscores Stadler's commitment to pioneering sustainable rail transport solutions," the Urban Transport News says.

"The FLIRT H2, showcased for the first time at InnoTrans 2022 in Berlin, represents a significant advancement in eco-friendly commuter trains. Developed with meticulous attention to detail, the integration of fuel cells and hydrogen storage systems into the modern FLIRT commuter train line has undergone rigorous testing in Switzerland and the United States.

"The record-setting journey commenced on March 20, 2024, at the ENSCO test center in Pueblo, Colorado. Over 46 hours, the FLIRT H2 traversed an impressive distance, showcasing its reliability and endurance. The meticulous documentation of the journey ensures transparency and authenticity in establishing the Guinness World Records title."

"Dr. Ansgar Brockmeyer, EVP of Marketing and Sales at Stadler, hails this achievement as a testament to the exceptional performance of the FLIRT H2. This milestone reflects the collective effort of Stadler's team and reaffirms their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in rail transportation," the Urban Transport News says.

"Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US Inc., emphasizes the company's commitment to shaping the future of rail transportation with alternative drive systems. By harnessing hydrogen as a clean energy source, Stadler contributes to environmental protection and advances the vision of sustainable, zero-emission travel."

"This accolade adds to Stadler's track record of innovation, following the success of the FLIRT Akku, a battery-powered model that set a world record for the longest journey in pure battery mode in December 2021. Stadler's FLIRT H2 has garnered international acclaim, with recent orders for hydrogen trains in California and Italy.

"The FLIRT H2's innovative design incorporates fuel cells, hydrogen tanks, and battery systems, enabling emission-free operation on routes without overhead lines. With seating for 108 passengers and a maximum speed of 130 km/h (79 mph), the FLIRT H2 offers both comfort and efficiency."

"The world record journey started in the evening of March 20, 2024 where the train set out for its first laps around the test track. The team of engineers from Stadler and ENSCO continued driving the vehicle in shifts throughout the night and following day and concluded the successful attempt at 5.23 p.m. (MST), on March 22 , 2024 (at 12.23 a.m. CET, on March 23, 2024). Altogether, the train travelled 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers) for over 46 hours on one tank filling," the Stadler Rail AG says.

"With this, Stadler’s FLIRT H2 officially holds the world record for the longest distance travelled by a hydrogen-powered passenger train without refueling or recharging. The record attempt was made at the ENSCO test center in Pueblo, Colorado where the vehicle had undergone its type test procedure. Detailed records before, during and after the world record attempt were kept to ensure precise and transparent evidence is established."

"Stadler is proud to announce that the FLIRT H2 has been entered into the Guinness World Records database for the longest distance of 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers) achieved by a pilot hydrogen fuel cell electric multiple unit passenger train without refueling or recharging," Stadler Rail AG says.

"This achievement underlines Stadler's innovative strength and technological leadership in the field of sustainable rail transport. Innovation has always been one of the core factors contributing to the company’s success and the entry in the Guinness World Records database marks another exciting highlight that proves the FLIRT H2’s capabilities and its pioneering technology."

"In a landmark achievement for sustainable rail transport, Stadler's hydrogen-powered train, the FLIRT H2, has clinched a Guinness World Records title for the longest distance traveled by a hydrogen fuel cell electric multiple unit (EMU) passenger train without the need for refueling or recharging," the Alternative Fuels Observatory says.

"The FLIRT H2 covered an impressive distance of 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers), marking a significant milestone in the advancement of clean energy solutions in the rail industry.

"The record-setting journey began on the evening of March 20, 2024, at the ENSCO test center in Pueblo, Colorado, concluding after more than 46 hours of continuous operation. This achievement underscores Stadler's commitment to innovation and its pioneering role in developing alternative propulsion systems for trains, aiming to reduce environmental impact and foster zero-emission travel."

"In concert with Stadler and ENSCO, Air Liquide is helping to prove hydrogen’s power to decarbonize hard-to-abate transportation sectors like rail transport, and doing it in record-setting fashion. Stadler’s FLIRT H2, a hydrogen-powered train built for SBCTA which first debuted in 2022, has been entered into the Guinness World Records database for the longest distance of 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers) achieved by a pilot hydrogen fuel cell electric multiple unit passenger train without refueling or recharging," the Air Liquide USA reports.

"For the FLIRT H2’s record-setting trip, Air Liquide supplied the hydrogen fuel and the accompanying fueling infrastructure which, combined with Stadler’s innovative propulsion solution, ensured that the train was able to go the distance without needing to refuel. The Stadler FLIRT H2 power pack contains the fuel cells and hydrogen tanks.

"The fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity. This electricity is sent to a traction converter. The battery then supplies the drive of the vehicle with the power required at any given time. This configuration also allows for recuperation of brake energy back to the battery. Therefore, the battery stores both braking power and power from the hydrogen cells.

"Stadler’s FLIRT H2 train has entered the Guinness Book of World Records for “the longest distance of 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometres) achieved by a pilot hydrogen fuel cell electric multiple unit passenger train without refuelling or recharging," the RailTech.com says.

"The record-breaking journey began on March 20, 2024, with the FLIRT H2 circling the test track continuously for over 46 hours, driven by Stadler and ENSCO engineers working in shifts. The endeavour concluded successfully on March 22, 2024. Stadler’s FLIRT H2 now joins its predecessor, the FLIRT Akku, in the Guinness World Records for alternative propulsion trains.

"The FLIRT H2, designed for emission-free operation, incorporates hydrogen fuel cells and batteries to power its propulsion system. With two electrically powered end cars and a central power pack housing fuel cells and hydrogen tanks, the FLIRT H2 accommodates 108 passengers and reaches a maximum speed of 130 kilometres per hour (79 miles per hour). This design enables the train to operate continuously without frequent refuelling, making it a useful solution for routes without overhead lines."

Photos: Furthest distance achieved by a hydrogen-powered passenger train without refueling, Stadler’s FLIRT H2 sets world record

(1-3) Facebook/Stadler

(4) stadlerrail.com