India Successfully Tests First Hydrogen-Powered Train Coach at ICF Chennai.
National
In a landmark stride towards sustainable rail transport, India has successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered train coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai on 25 July 2025. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed the breakthrough on social media platform X, emphasizing India’s emergence among global leaders in hydrogen train technology.
- The hydrogen-powered coach, also known as the Driving Power Car, is part of Indian Railways’ ambitious ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ program. Designed by RDSO (Research Design and Standards Organisation), the engine delivers 1,200 horsepower, making it significantly more powerful than comparable hydrogen trains in Germany, France, Sweden, and China, which typically operate with 500–600 HP.
- Compared to diesel locomotives, the hydrogen train offers a 60% reduction in noise levels, ensuring a quieter and more comfortable passenger experience. With zero carbon emissions—the only by-products being water vapour and heat—it aligns perfectly with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 across its rail network.
- The Indian Railways has allocated approximately ₹2,800 crore for the development of 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains, with infrastructure set to incur an additional ₹70 crore per route. Each hydrogen train is estimated to cost around ₹80 crore. A dedicated pilot retrofit project worth ₹111.83 crore is underway to convert existing DEMU coaches with hydrogen fuel cells, targeting the Jind–Sonipat test route.
Main Point :- (i) Following the successful Chennai trial, trial runs are planned on the Jind–Sonipat section in Haryana, covering approximately 89 km at a top speed of 110 km/h.
(ii) This pilot will help fine-tune performance parameters and safety requirements before expanding deployment to heritage and mountainous routes such as the Kalka–Shimla, Darjeeling Himalayan, and Nilgiri Mountain Railways.
(iii) Railway Minister Vaishnaw emphasized that this indigenous innovation leverages local talent and international-grade engineering, positioning India among the global forerunners in hydrogen-powered rail systems. The initiative reinforces India’s commitment to green mobility, future-ready infrastructure, and energy-efficient public transport innovation.
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