World’s first test driving hydrogen train succeeds in Ulsan

The world's first test driving hydrogen-electric tram succeeded in Ulsan, South Korea. 

According to Ulsan Metropolitan Government officials, the tram's test ride event is held on Nov. 14 at Ulsan Port Station. The hydrogen-electric-powered tram spanned five carriages and measuring 35 meters in length, embarked on a 4-kilometer to Sambi Crossing with 200 participants, including industry experts and local citizens.

The hydrogen electric tram, manufactured by Hyundai Rotem, ran for about ten minutes at a top speed of 40 km/h. A device that converts hydrogen into electrical energy is installed on the roof of the tram. Each charge of the tram allows it to travel between 150 to 200 kilometers.

The current demonstration project aims to cover 2,500 kilometers by the end of the following month, testing the tram between Ulsan Port Station and Taehwa River Station over a 4.6-kilometer stretch.

"While many countries are conducting demonstrations for the development of hydrogen tram technology, Ulsan is the first in the world to demonstrate its commercialization," said Park Soon-cheol, Director of Transportation in Ulsan.

Following the demonstration, the hydrogen tram is expected to operate along the Ulsan Urban Railway Line 1.

With an investment of 329.7 billion won ($252 million), Ulsan is set to construct a wireless hydrogen tram line featuring 15 stations along a 10.99-kilometer route from Taehwa River Station to Shinbok Rotary.

The project is scheduled to start in 2026 and is anticipated to be completed by 2029. Once fully operational, the tram system is expected to serve 24,000 passengers daily.

"We will meticulously examine the safety of the entire train, including the hydrogen fuel cell, storage devices, and wheels, by the end of the year," Mayor of Ulsan Kim Doo-gyeom said. "As the world's first hydrogen tram to be introduced, it is poised to play a significant role as a flagship tourist attraction representing Ulsan."

Write to In-Sik Ha at hais@hankyung.com