India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train Coach Successfully Tested

India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train Coach Successfully Tested

India’s successful test of its first hydrogen-powered train coach is a milestone in green mobility, showcasing its commitment to clean energy and sustainable transport. With plans for a 1,200 HP hydrogen train and heritage route retrofits.

Posted byShivam Last updated on July 26th, 2025 10:57 am

India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train Coach Successfully Tested

India has entered a new era of green transportation with the successful testing of its first hydrogen-powered train coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, on July 25, 2025. This breakthrough marks a critical step toward sustainable mobility in railways and places India among a handful of countries adopting hydrogen-based rail technology. The initiative is part of a broader push to meet India’s net-zero emissions targets and modernize its railway infrastructure with clean energy alternatives.

Background

The concept of hydrogen trains emerged globally as an alternative to diesel-powered locomotives, especially on non-electrified tracks. Countries like Germany, France, and Japan have already deployed hydrogen trains in limited routes. India began exploring hydrogen-based rail technology under its “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative in 2023. The Railway Ministry proposed retrofitting DEMUs (Diesel Electric Multiple Units) and developing new hydrogen-powered trains to support clean transport in heritage and hill routes.

Significance of the Hydrogen Coach Test 

First-of-its-kind in India: The Driving Power Car tested at ICF is the first hydrogen train coach ever built and tested domestically.

Clean & Green Innovation: Hydrogen trains produce zero tailpipe emissions, emitting only water vapour, making them ideal for India’s green goals.

Global Leadership: Developing a 1,200 HP hydrogen-powered train elevates India into the league of technologically advanced railway nations.

Strategic for Energy Security: Promotes energy diversification, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

 Objectives of Hydrogen-Powered Trains in India 

Promote Green Transportation: Reduce carbon emissions from railways.

Modernize Hill & Heritage Routes: Cleaner transport on scenic routes for tourism and sustainability.

Develop Indigenous Technology: Strengthen Make in India with domestic hydrogen innovation.

Fulfill Climate Commitments: Contribute to India’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.

 Features and Cost Structure 

The project includes plans to operate 35 hydrogen-powered trains under the Hydrogen for Heritage program.

Cost per train: Estimated at ₹80 crore.

Infrastructure cost per route: Estimated at ₹70 crore.

Pilot project: ₹111.83 crore allocated for retrofitting a DEMU with hydrogen fuel cells to run on the Jind–Sonipat section (Northern Railway).

While initial operational costs are high, they are expected to decline with scale and innovation.

 Future Prospects 

Hydrogen trains are expected to replace diesel engines on non-electrified routes.

They can serve remote, hilly, and ecologically sensitive areas with minimal environmental impact.

Over time, India may become a global hub for hydrogen-based rail technology with export potential.

Supports the government’s broader National Green Hydrogen Mission.