German officials launched what they say is the world’s first fleet of hydrogen-powered passenger trains on Wednesday, replacing 15 diesel trains that previously operated on unelectrified tracks in the state of Lower Saxony.
All 14 trains use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity that powers the engines.
The German government has supported expanding the use of hydrogen as a clean alternative to fossil fuels.
State governor Stephan Weil said the 93 million euro project was a “great example” of Lower Saxony’s efforts to green its economy.
Trains manufactured by the French company Alstom are operated by the regional railway company LNVG on the lines between the northern cities of Cuxhaven, Bremerhaven, Bremervoerde and Buxtehude.