DESIRO VERVE PROPOSED FOR INTRODUCTION IN UK
Hydrogen power is likely to play a significant role in rail’s decarbonisation journey. The latest manufacturer to tout its hydrogen credentials is Siemens Mobility: the company has announced a partnership with Deutsche Bahn to create a complete rail system for hydrogen in Germany, including a new hydrogen-powered train and refuelling infrastructure.
On the back of this, Siemens Mobility is targeting the introduction of hydrogen trains in the UK. A memorandum of understanding with Siemens Energy means it can offer an end-to-end solution covering hydrogen generation, fuelling and rolling stock.
Sambit Banerjee, UK Managing Director of the Rolling Stock and Customer Services business, told Modern Railways the company is developing the Desiro Verve as an evolution of the Desiro City EMU, which is operating with Govia Thameslink Railway and South Western Railway.
The Desiro Verve EMU has a top speed of 200km/h, although under hydrogen power it would operate at up to 160km/h (100mph) and have a range of 600 miles, with a refuelling time of 15 minutes. It would be offered in two configurations – as a bi-mode train capable of operating under overhead electric and h…
