All aboard for hydrogen

THE House Infrastructure, Transport and Cities Committee inquiry into automated mass transit is shifting into turbo, with a hearing next week to investigate the potential convergence of new energy sources and automation.

Committee chair John Alexander said the Committee has seen at first hand the possibilities for the automation of public transport and the use of hydrogen fuel cells to power vehicles.

"The potential for cleaner, greener, more efficient transport systems is immense," Mr Alexander said.

"Automated high speed rail has the potential to revolutionise inter-city transport, creating a new pattern of settlement around Australia."

The committee will hear evidence from Hydrogen Mobility Australia, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries and the Australasian Railway Association at a public hearing on Tuesday.

In a submission to the inquiry, Hydrogen Mobility Australia noted that automation, connectivity and electric drivetrains are "inextricably linked in that they are complementary technologies". The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries have added that hydrogen fuel cell development is taking place globally for a range of vehicle types including buses, trains, heavy trucks, material handling vehicles, as well as conventional motor vehicles.

In its submission to the inquiry, the Australasian Railway Association noted that greater use of automation will assist passenger and freight rail operators to increase their capacity.

Public hearing details: 5pm – 6.30pm, Tuesday, 19 February 2019 Committee Room 1R2, Parliament House, Canberra.

5pm: Hydrogen Mobility Australia and Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries

5.40pm: Australasian Railway Association

6.30pm: Close

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live