India's First Hydrogen-Powered Train Coach Tested At Integral Coach Factory In Chennai, Confirms Railway Minister

India successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered train coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav confirmed this on X (formerly Twitter).

India's First Hydrogen Train

"First Hydrogen-powered coach (Driving Power Car) successfully tested at ICF, Chennai. India is developing a 1,200 HP Hydrogen train. This will place India among the leaders in hydrogen-powered train technology," the Minister posted on X( formerly Twitter).

Driving Power Car

The tested coach, known as the Driving Power Car, represents a significant advancement toward cleaner and more sustainable railway systems. India has joined the elite league of green rail innovators.

Cost of Trains

While the initial running cost of hydrogen trains may be high, it is expected to decrease over time. The move is aimed at promoting green transport and supporting India's zero-carbon emission goals through clean hydrogen energy.

Hydrogen For Heritage

In 2023, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Rajya Sabha that Indian Railways plans to operate 35 hydrogen-powered trains under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative. Each train is estimated to cost ₹80 crore, with ₹70 crore per route for supporting infrastructure on heritage and hill routes. A pilot project worth ₹111.83 crore has also been launched to retrofit a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) with hydrogen fuel cells, set to run on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway. 

Hydrogen Train In August?

According to the Deccan Herald, "With the successful testing of the country’s first hydrogen-powered coach on Friday, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is preparing to roll out India’s first hydrogen train by the end of August."

Decrease In Operational Costs

According to DD News, "While the running cost of hydrogen-based trains is yet to be firmly established in the Indian context, initial estimates suggest higher operational costs that are expected to decrease as the number of hydrogen trains increases. Beyond economic considerations, hydrogen fuel is widely recognized for its environmental benefits, including zero carbon emissions, making it a key component of India’s clean energy transition strategy."