A zero-carbon initiative in Scotland is looking for a project partner to build a train which would run on hydrogen which could lead to the phasing out of diesel within 15 years.

Scotland on Sunday reports the University of St Andrews is seeking a design partner for the next stage of the Scottish Enterprise and Transport Scotland scheme which aims to demonstrate how the country’s railways could be decarbonised.

It says the project will involve converting one of a fleet of electric ScotRail trains which were phased out last year (picture from file).

The contract, also involving the University of Strathclyde, will include system design, installation and demonstration of the train on a line away from the rail network. However the report says cheaper hydrogen production may be required to make it a viable fuel since the gas remains far more expensive than diesel.

Scottish Enterprise managing director of economic development Linda Hanna told the paper it is “an opportunity to demonstrate innovation and get involved with an industry of the future”.

(Picture – Geograph.org.uk)