Hydrogen Autonomous Train Running on Rails

To support conventional trains on secondary railway lines, new initiatives are emerging, such as the Taxirail developed by the Breton innovation office EXID C&D.

Based in Plusquellec (22160), EXID C&D is an innovation office that aims to respond to new challenges and offers a range of services in Project Engineering (Consulting, Innovation Management, Project Management, Design & Concepts), covering all sectors: Naval, energy, cleantechs, transportation, industry…

Specifically in the field of transportation, the company has developed the Taxirail project, an autonomous light train designed to ensure profitability and improve service on small railway lines, which are often unprofitable but essential for connecting French residents lacking transportation options.

On the rails in 2025?

The Taxirail first distinguishes itself by its type of energy. Depending on the markets and budget, it can be equipped with a hybrid GNV/electric, or even hydrogen propulsion system. The Taxirail could carry up to 40 passengers, combine three shuttles during peak hours, and transform into on-demand transport during off-peak hours. Approved by ADEME, the ecological transition agency, this autonomous train could begin testing as early as 2023 on a section of railway located within the Port-Jérôme industrial complex in Normandy. An initial official step, with hopes for a commercial launch at the beginning of 2025, aiming at an ambitious production of 500 shuttles by 2030.

Good news for leaders, the company has signed a letter of intent with a subsidiary of SNCF called Akiem, specialized in train leasing. “They will bring their technical expertise, especially on maintenance,” says Régis Coat, president of Taxirail SAS and EXID C&D.

Beyond conventional passenger transport, the Taxirail could be adapted for freight and mail versions, with a load capacity of up to 2.5 tons.

Read also: Autonomous electric shuttles at the ArianeGroup site