Proposals for UK use of Alstom’s hydrogen trains

Alstom has confirmed that it is talking to Government about the possibility of its hydrogen trains being used in the UK.

Launched last year, the Coradia iLint hydrogen-powered multiple unit has been undergoing testing in Germany. A Department for Transport document released on October 19 discusses alternative power for trains, including hydrogen (see separate story). An Alstom spokesman told

RAIL on October 25: “Alstom is leading the way when it comes to alternative fuel sources for trains.

“We welcome the Government’s commitment to explore moving away from diesel, and believe that our hydrogen technology offers the best and most practical way of achieving this. We are in dialogue with a number of city regions, Government and rolling stock operating companies. We are excited about the potential to bring a hydrogen train to the UK.”

Tests in Germany have had the train running at 50mph. Further testing will reach almost 90mph, and it has been tested at Velim, Czech Republic. It enters traffic early next year on the BuxtehudeBremervorde-BremerhavenCuxhaven route in Germany.

The train works by using a hydrogen fuel cell, which produces electrical power for traction. It has no harmful emissions, emitting steam and condensed water.

It is based on Alstom’s Coradia Lint diesel multiple unit, and Alstom aims to get its hydrogen via wind farms. There are already orders for 60 trains in Germany.