CRRC Corporation Limited has introduced two groundbreaking transportation products at InnoTrans 2024 in Berlin, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and intelligent transport solutions. The new offerings include the CINOVA H2 New Energy Intelligent Intercity Train and the Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (ART) 2.0, both designed to enhance green mobility.
The CINOVA H2 train represents a significant leap in zero-carbon passenger transport. Powered by hydrogen, the train generates electricity through a chemical reaction with oxygen, producing only water as a byproduct. Liang Caiguo, a technical expert at CRRC, explained that with an anticipated annual operation of 300,000 kilometers, each train could potentially reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 730 tons per year.
“The design focuses on sustainability,” said Liang. “The water emitted from the hydrogen fuel cell is purified and recycled for passenger use. Furthermore, waste heat from the cooling system is utilised to heat the air conditioning in winter.” The CINOVA H2 can reach a top speed of 200 kilometers per hour and can carry over 1,000 passengers across a range of 1,200 kilometers at a cruising speed of 160 km/h. This distance exceeds that of the route from Berlin to London and consumes less than 0.3 grams of hydrogen per passenger per kilometer.
Employing CRRC’s SmartCare intelligent operation and maintenance system, the CINOVA H2 offers a comprehensive lifecycle management solution. This technology integrates vehicle and ground data to enhance operational safety and reduce maintenance costs. The hydrogen system has been rigorously tested to ensure safety across all scenarios, incorporating multiple protective measures, including intelligent detection and isolation protocols.
The ART 2.0, unveiled in a striking “Green Peacock” design, embodies the fusion of eco-innovation and oriental aesthetics. Dr. Xiao Lei, an engineer at CRRC, described it as a vehicle that merges the functionality of trams and road vehicles while addressing urban transport needs. The ART 2.0 operates on rubber wheels and virtual tracks, which significantly lowers construction and maintenance costs.
With versatility at its core, the ART 2.0 accommodates various power sources, including fast-charging lithium batteries, supercapacitors, and hydrogen. Its maximum driving range reaches 500 kilometers, with rapid charging capabilities that can add 20 kilometers of range in just five minutes. The ART 2.0 also features advanced autonomous driving technology, achieving the highest functional safety level, SIL4, ensuring passenger safety and reliability.
CRRC reports that nine ART lines have been established in China, covering over 15 million kilometers and serving more than 35 million passengers, resulting in a reduction of carbon emissions by over 24,500 tons. The system has also been successfully deployed in the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia.
Ma Yunshuang, President of CRRC Corporation, stated, “We are committed to empowering the world with diverse rail transit solutions driven by sustainable technological innovation.” Looking ahead, CRRC aims to enhance the digital, intelligent, and environmentally responsible transformation of rail transit, providing passengers worldwide with more intelligent and comfortable travel options.