Germany has introduced the hydrogen-based Coradia iLint which will be the world’s first zero-emission passenger train. It will only release steam and represents another towering victory for the Germans in reducing pollution and fighting climate change.
The acronym LINT is short for the German “Leichter Innovativer Nahverkehrstriebwagen” (light innovative local transport rail vehicle) and was designed by Linke-Hofmann-Busch. The hydrogen burns with oxygen with only discharging water from the energy.
The Coradia iLint only emits excess steam into the atmosphere, and provides an alternative to the country’s 4,000 diesel trains. It is also virtually silent except for the sound of its wheels and the wind. It can travel almost 500 miles per day at speeds of up to 87mph.
The Germans could ultimately replace thousands of diesel trains in a massive reduction of pollution. It will roll out in December 2017.
The United States needs to show an equal commitment to this emerging market of green technology unless we want to cede dominance to the Germans. In the meantime, the world should rejoice in the breakthrough of this important technology.
Interesting how this train is built by a French company, but not a word about the French at all. Only talk about the German buyers.