Latvian Railway teams up with Czech, Canadian companies to make eco-locomotives

Latvian Railway signed an agreement Thursday with Czech, Canadian companies to make eco-locomotives.

The deal was signed between Latvian national rail company Latvijas Dzelzcels (Latvian Railway) and Czech enterprise CZ LOKO, Canada's Ballard Power Systems to work out a technological solution for a hydrogen powered locomotive on the basis of the Czech-made CME3 shunting locomotive.

The locomotive will be overhauled to reduce its noise and vibration levels, as well as get rid of engine emissions.

"Today, hydrogen powered locomotives are no longer a scientific experiment or a futuristic dream. They are reality, a combination of modern-day technology and knowledge," said Latvian Railway CEO Edvins Berzins.

"The transition to hydrogen as the source of energy marks the beginning of a new technology era in the transport sector, characterized by an efficient use of energy and reduced pollution," said Berzins.

"We have already implemented two rolling stock modernization projects in cooperation with CZ LOKO. We have practically rebuilt our CME3M shunting locomotives and also a 2M62UM cab unit diesel locomotive," the head of the Latvian rail company said.

LDz Ritosa Sastava Serviss, a subsidiary of Latvijas Dzelzcels in charge of rolling stock maintenance, will be involved in the project to carry out the rebuilding work, CZ LOKO will provide the necessary parts and documentation, and Ballard Power Systems will supply the hydrogen fuel cells.

The Latvian Academy of Sciences will also be providing technical support.

Similar green transport projects have already been implemented in China, Britain, the United States, Denmark, Japan, Germany, India and South Africa.

Source : XINHUA