Re:Japan is holding back as the world rushes toward electric...
by SECProto on Sunday August 22, 2021 @12:35PM
(#28266888)
> Passenger trains, trucks and ships are a different story.
In some countries, sure. But most rail in Japan is already electrified - 70% of the system [1]. The remainder would be low ridership routes, many of which the rail companies want to close - but if they don't, perhaps partially battery operated trains would be feasible - charge at every stop and at intermediate locations as needed.
Additionally, trucking routes in Japan are much shorter and slower than North America, making BEV trucks more feasible.
Ships I agree with you, hydrogen is likely best way forward
If you use real usage numbers you get only an 8 percent increase over current energy demand.
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/electric-power-and-natur...
> Especially with passenger trains already running on hydrogen
Passenger trains, trucks and ships are a different story.