In this article, Rob Gibson, CEO of Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions, explains how the organisation’s HydroShunter innovation can lead a hydrogen-powered revolution in rail decarbonisation.

As Governments worldwide enforce stricter regulations and set ambitious environmental targets to achieve net-zero emissions, the need for decarbonisation in the transportation sector has never been more urgent.

Responsible for nearly a quarter of global carbon emissions, the sector must rapidly transition to cleaner energy sources. One such source, hydrogen is emerging as a transformative, scalable solution for reducing emissions, particularly in heavy transportation.

The rail industry offers a cleaner mode of transport than others, but fuel alternatives are needed to reduce its annual global emissions, which, according to the latest statistics, stand at 94.6 million metric tonnes of CO2. Hydrogen offers a scalable, sustainable solution.

At Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions (Vanguard STS), we are driving this transformation. Our engineers comprised the core of the University of Birmingham team that developed the UK’s first hydrogen train and the world’s first converted hydrogen train to be mainline-approved. We are now proud to present our latest innovation, the HydroShunter—the UK’s first hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive—marks a major milestone in the decarbonisation of rail.

The HydroShunter leverages Vanguard’s unique NEO1 powertrain technology—a modular, scalable hydrogen/battery hybrid drivetrain that can be retrofitted to replace the diesel engines in existing locomotives.

At the core of our work is a belief that innovation should be practical, scalable, and capable of delivering immediate impact. The Class 08 locomotive, a stalwart of UK rail since the 1950s, serves as the platform for our retrofit, highlighting the potential to decarbonise existing rail assets efficiently.

Rather than relying on a traditional diesel generator, the HydroShunter’s drivetrain is powered by a combination of hydrogen storage, a fuel cell, and a traction battery. This configuration offers a seamless transition from diesel to clean energy while preserving the locomotive’s operational capabilities.

At Vanguard STS, our operating model is based on a principle known as ‘Concept, Create, Operate’:

Concept; to explore the viability of sustainable technology for your transport needs

Create; to develop and deliver sustainable solutions that make the future of your transport system a reality

Operate; to stay connected to ensure everything is in place to operate a sustainable transport system efficiently

This model drives the solutions we can offer, ranging from system design and optimisation, powertrain design, refuelling and infrastructure support.

Accelerating a cleaner future

Integral to the HydroShunter’s success is the support of the Clean Futures Accelerator Programme, which is designed to empower SMEs like Vanguard STS. With access to technical expertise, investor readiness guidance, and the invaluable Rail Development & Test Site provided by BCIMO (Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation), we have accelerated the development and testing of our hydrogen locomotive.

The programme’s bespoke engineering and commercial support have enabled us to refine our drivetrain technology while also exploring the broader market potential for hydrogen-powered rail vehicles. Additionally, BCIMO’s demonstration facilities allow us to showcase HydroShunter to potential investors, stakeholders, and industry partners in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Collaboration with Severn Valley Railway

Our long-standing partnership with Severn Valley Railway (SVR) has been essential to the project. SVR provided the base vehicle—a 1950s Class 08 locomotive—and its team of young volunteer engineers has worked alongside our engineering team to restore the legacy equipment and integrate the new drivetrain. This collaboration underscores the vital role heritage railways can play in advancing rail decarbonisation by providing invaluable expertise and infrastructure for innovation projects.

A demonstration of exciting possibilities

Progress with HydroShunter has been rapid, and with all low voltage tests completed earlier this year, the locomotive was moving for the first time using battery-only power in early August. Following successful battery testing, integration of the hydrogen storage and fuel cell is now underway with a view to final commissioning in early 2025.

In January 2025, we will unveil the HydroShunter at SVR, followed by a Demonstration Day at BCIMO in February before returning to the SVR for ongoing testing and shakedown. These events will showcase our locomotive operating on battery power, with full hydrogen integration planned shortly after. Our goal is to demonstrate the practical viability of hydrogen in rail freight while introducing operators to this transformative technology.

Looking ahead: A global opportunity

We believe hydrogen, long used in industrial applications, is ready to transition into the transport sector. While the current cost of hydrogen fuel in the UK remains a challenge, the global market demonstrates that cost parity with diesel is achievable. Vanguard STS is committed to facilitating this transition, leveraging our expertise to integrate hydrogen solutions where they make the most sense—such as in long-haul rail operations across vast distances in the Americas, Canada and Australia for example. With electrification impractical over such distances, hydrogen offers a viable and sustainable alternative.

At Vanguard STS, we aim to be the trusted integrator of all power sources for rail, offering bespoke solutions that meet each client’s unique needs. Whether it’s hydrogen, battery, or even diesel in the short term, our approach is focused on delivering the best solution for decarbonisation while ensuring operational efficiency.

Pioneering a clean future

We believe HydroShunter is a trailblazer, not just for Vanguard STS but for the entire rail industry. As the first hydrogen-powered freight locomotive in the UK, it sets a new standard for what’s possible in decarbonising heavy transportation. With the support of the Clean Futures Accelerator, BCIMO, and Severn Valley Railway, we are proud to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as a critical component of the future of rail.

With innovations like HydroShunter, we believe we can provide a look ahead to the future of rail, with net zero focus.

For more information on HydroShunter visit www.vanguardsts.com/uks-first-hydrogen-powered-freight-locomotive/

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