The Stadler FLIRT H2 is a hydrogen fuel cell-powered passenger train that recently set the Guinness World Record for the longest distance traveled without needing to recharge or refuel, with a very respectable 1,741.7-mile trip. Granted, that was achieved doing laps around a flat test track, but still, that’s far better range than I get in my Explorer and roughly two-thirds the distance across the continental United States.
A team of engineers took shifts operating the train around the clock for 46 hours straight, at which time the hydrogen tank was completed, and 1,741.7 miles were logged. According to my calculations, that’s about 38 miles per hour, so it wasn’t going particularly fast. Me? I like to get places in a hurry or, ideally, not leave the house at all.
Stadler is consistently focusing on the future of rail transportation with alternative drive systems by continuously developing innovative technologies. By using hydrogen as a clean energy source, we are actively contributing to environmental protection and shaping the sustainable and zero emission travel of tomorrow,” said Martin Ritter, CEO Stadler US Inc.
I’m all for clean energy and environmental protection. The Explorer I claimed to drive earlier? I lied — I don’t even own a car. My wife does though, but she doesn’t let me drive it because, “You’re a terrible driver,” and “You don’t even have a license.” Both very valid points.
[via TechEBlog]
With over 17 years of writing experience, Jonathan has had a passion for all things tech-related, ever since watching Inspector Gadget as a child. He's disassembled countless appliances and managed to put a few back together, and one still works. When not writing, he can often be found playing video games or accidentally hurting himself in the garage.