This zero-carbon submarine could be carrying underwater cargo from Glasgow
The project's won backing from a UK Government climate change fund
Last updated 15th Sep 2021
Hydrogen-powered submarines could be carrying freight underwater between Glasgow and Belfast in future as part of a drive to explore ideas for zero-carbon transport for the future.
The developers, Oceanways, are being awareded a share of £23m of green maritime funding.
Dhruv Boruah, founder and chief executive of Oceanways, which is developing the submarines, said: "Time is running out and it is imperative we don't settle for 1% more efficiency in an existing system, but instead radically rethink to create innovative solutions.''
The fully automated vessels are designed to be "net positive'' by running on green hydrogen and collecting microplastics, the Department for Transport said.
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A fleet could secure 27 tonnes of CO2 emissions in the first year of operation, according to the officials.
The competition winners were announced as part of London International Shipping Week.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "As a proud island nation built on our maritime prowess, it is only right that we lead by example when it comes to decarbonising the sector and building back greener.
"The projects announced today showcase the best of British innovation, revolutionising existing technology and infrastructure to slash emissions, create jobs and get us another step closer to our decarbonisation targets.''
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Freight train powered by vegetable oil
Back on land, passengers at Glasgow Central station are getting a glimpse of what the future of greener freight transport on the rails could look like.
DB Cargo UK is displaying a Class 66 locomotive which runs on by hydro-treated vegetable oil in place of diesel.
The green-liveried 'Climate Hero' locomotive will be on show at platform 11 until 5pm today (Wednesday 15th September).