In a major breakthrough to fight pollution and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Chennai- based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) will now develop a fuel cell-based train considered to be the best in renewable energy source.

"Fuel cells have a higher efficiency than diesel or gas engines.  Vehicle operated with hydrogen technology operates silently when compared to internal combustion engines. Fuel cells can eliminate pollution caused by burning fossil fuels and also reduce the emission of greenhouses gases," said S Mani, General Manager, ICF, Chennai. ICF in the recent past is focusing on energy efficient coaches and this is the latest breakthrough.

The prototype is expected to be ready by December 2018 and the first fuel cell-driven passenger train is expected to be operated for the public by December 2019.

The SRM University, AP-Amaravati University and SRM Institute of Science and Technology signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ICF to develop the fuel cell-based train prototype.

 As per the MoU, SRM will be responsible for conceptualising and creating energy storage systems, including fuel cells, batteries, super capacitors and control systems. ICF would develop the equipment beyond the DC link for the switcher in the coaches.

ICF Chennai will manufacture the train and private institutes will provide the energy storage systems (such as fuel cells, batteries, super capacitors, DC/DC converters and control systems up to DC link).

 Fuel cells do not need conventional fuels and can therefore reduce economic dependence on oil producing nations," said a senior railway Ministry official.

Hydrogen-based Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell is one of the best renewable energy sources with increasing efficiency and zero carbon di-oxide emissions.  "The fuel cell-powered train will have PEM Fuel Cell, coupled with lithium ion batteries and super capacitors. Parallel development of fuel cell powered switcher coach of 100 horsepower as locomotive would be developed along with a passenger train with two coaches. Each coach, with a capacity to carry 65 passengers, can be operated at a speed of 75 kmph," said a senior railway official.