Germany flags off world’s first hydrogen-powered train; see pics

Almost four years after the start of trial operations, the world's first passenger train network powered by hydrogen was launched in Germany. The 14 trains with hydrogen fuel cell drive produced by French manufacturer Alstom are to replace diesel trains, Xinhua news agency quoted the local transport authority of Lower Saxony, LNVG.

The world's first fleet of hydrogen-powered passenger trains was officially launched in Germany. Credit: AFP Photo

The trains replaced 15 diesel trains that previously operated on non-electrified tracks in the state of Lower Saxony, Germany. Credit: AFP Photo

The 14 trains used hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity that powers the engines. Credit: AFP Photo

The German government has backed expanding the use of hydrogen as a clean alternative to fossil fuel. Credit: AFP Photo

The trains manufactured by French company Alstom are operated by regional rail company LNVG on routes between the northern towns of Cuxhaven, Bremerhaven, Bremervoerde, and Buxtehude. Credit: AFP Photo

These trains have a range of up to 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) and a maximum speed of 140 kph (87 mph). Credit: AFP Photo

By using hydrogen produced with renewable energy, these trains will reportedly save 1.6 million litres (more than 422,000 gallons) of diesel fuel a year. Credit: AFP Photo

People sit inside a train powered entirely by hydrogen in Bremervoerde, Germany. Credit: AFP Photo

A hydrogen-filling station for train powered entirely by hydrogen in Bremervoerde, Germany. Credit: AFP Photo