Like a mirage rushing throughout the dusty desert outdoors Pueblo, Colorado, the primary hydrogen-fuel-cell passenger prepare in america is getting warmed up on its take a look at observe. It’ll quickly be shipped to Southern California, the place it’s slated to hold riders on San Bernardino County’s Arrow commuter rail service earlier than the tip of the yr.
One of the best ways to decarbonize railroads is the topic of rising debate amongst regulators, business, and activists. The talk is partly technological, revolving round whether or not hydrogen gas cells, batteries, or overhead electrical wires supply the very best efficiency for various railroad conditions. But it surely’s additionally political: a query of the extent to which decarbonization can, or ought to, usher in a broader transformation of rail transportation.
Within the insular world of railroading, this hydrogen-powered prepare is a Rorschach take a look at. To some, it represents the way forward for rail transportation. To others, it appears like a giant, shiny distraction. Learn the complete story.
—Benjamin Schneider
This story is for subscribers solely, and is from the following journal difficulty of MIT Expertise Evaluation, set to go dwell on April 24, on the theme of Construct. For those who don’t already, enroll now to get a replica when it lands.
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