India is stepping into a new era of mobility as it is about to launch the country’s first and the world’s most powerful hydrogen-powered train. The train developed by the Integral Coach Factory, marks a significant step towards sustainable transportation. The project is part of Indian railways larger goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030. Under this project, Rs 2800 crore were allocated for the development of 35 hydrogen fuel cell based trains.
What Makes It Special?
Recently, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that India has developed world’s highest horsepower hydrogen train. He announced this while speaking at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention. He said that unlike other nations, which have capacities between 500-600 horsepower. Indian railways has developed hydrogen powered train with 1,200 horsepower. Thereby, making it the world’s most powerful hydrogen train, surpassing countries like Germany and China.
🚆 Bharat’s Hydrogen train – 1200 HP capacity.
Developed by our engineers, our talent. pic.twitter.com/X5YMO0zHdz
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 9, 2025
Vaishnaw, also highlighted that the indigenously developed technology, reflects India’s growing technological self reliance. It will also pave way for grater innovation and adoption in trucks, trains and cars etc.
Reportedly, the train consists of 8 passenger coaches, along with 2 dedicated coaches for hydrogen cylinders, having capacity to accommodate 2500 passengers. Furthermore, it has been designed to travel at the speed of 110-140 Kms per hour.
Another unique feature of the train is that it will led to Zero-emissions. The train operates on hydrogen fuel cells which generate electricity using Hydrogen and Oxygen. The only By-product in this process is water vapor. Thus making it a cleaner and greener form of energy.
When Will It be Launched?
Reportedly, it is expected to be launched by the end of March 2025. ET Now quoted U Subba Rao, General Manager (GM), ICF, saying, “We are working on the flagship project for the hydrogen fuel cell train set. Hydrogen fuel cell coaches are currently being produced at ICF. The train set is likely to be turned out by March 25.” Furthermore, the first trial run for this engine is scheduled to take place on the 89-kilometer Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.