Progress Rail, BNSF Railway and Chevron have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to demonstrate a hydrogen-powered locomotive.
The aim of this demonstration will be to prove the feasibility and performance of hydrogen fuel cells as a viable alternative to traditional fuels for line-haul rail.
Under the MoU, Progress Rail – a Caterpillar company – will design and build a prototype hydrogen fuel cell locomotive for line-haul and/or other types of rail service.
Chevron will develop the fuelling concept and infrastructure and the hydrogen-powered locomotive will be demonstrated on BNSF’s lines for a yet-to-be-agreed amount of time.
“BNSF is pleased to collaborate with Chevron and Progress Rail in piloting locomotives powered by hydrogen fuel cells.
“This technology could one day be a lower-carbon solution for line-haul service, as it has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and remain cost competitive.”
