Angel Trains extends commitment to hydrogen project

Angel Trains will work with Arcola Energy on the Scottish Hydrogen Train project, using a redundant Class 314.

The rolling stock leasing company will provide more than £500,000 in green hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. It has already offered technical advice, parts and equipment, but this will now be extended to providing commercial and sustainability expertise.

The plan is for the former Class 314 to be demonstrated during the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow this November. Transport Scotland, Scottish Enterprise and the University of St Andrews/Hydrogen Accelerator are also involved in the project.

Angel Trains will also offer insight into traction options for new rolling stock, as well as trains that can be converted into hydrogen multiple units. 

Matthew Labuda, Head of Angel Trains Customer Service, North, said: “At a time when the world’s focus will be on COP26 in Glasgow, the new Scottish Hydrogen Train will bring cutting-edge technologies to life, while enhancing the passenger experience and progressing the Government’s green agenda.”

Conversion of three-car former ScotRail 314209 is being carried out at the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway, where initial testing will also be completed before the HMU moves to the national network. The ‘314’ has been at the heritage railway since last December.