India presented a hydrogen train with record-breaking engine power

India is preparing to launch its first hydrogen-powered train, with a 1,200-horsepower engine, marking a significant step towards sustainable rail travel.

The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai developed this program, which emphasises India’s commitment to zero-carbon emissions and green mobility in rail transit.

To speed the transition to hydrogen-based rail transport, the Ministry of Railways has set aside INR 2,800 crore (₹ 28 billion) in the fiscal year 2023-24 for the production of 35 hydrogen fuel cell-powered trains. These trains will help India’s overall efforts to cut carbon emissions and increase energy efficiency in rail operations.

Unlike other countries’ hydrogen trains, which typically have 500 to 600 horsepower engines, India’s revolutionary locomotive outperforms global benchmarks with unrivalled power output. This significant development places India at the forefront of hydrogen-powered railway innovation, with Germany, France, China, and the United Kingdom, which have all invested in clean-energy rail technology. Germany debuted the world’s first hydrogen train fleet in 2022, and India has now taken a major step towards sustainable transportation.

The first hydrogen train is slated to start operations on March 25 under Northern Railway’s Delhi Division. It will run on the 89-kilometer Jind-Sonipat track, marking an important step in Indian Railways’ shift from diesel to electric, and now hydrogen-powered mobility.

With this unprecedented endeavour, India solidifies its position as a leader in green railway innovations, contributing to global decarbonisation efforts while pushing the boundaries of hydrogen-powered transportation technology.

For more details, visit: https://icf.indianrailways.gov.in/