India’s first hydrogen train: RDSO completes performance test of fuel cell and battery

The successful completion of this performance test is a key step in the train’s development process, ensuring that its fuel cell and battery systems are capable of meeting the operational demands of the Jind-Sonipat section. (Image credit: RDSO/LinkedIn)

The Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO), the R&D body under the Ministry of Railways, announced on LinkedIn on August 29 that it has conducted a crucial performance test of the fuel cell and battery systems for India’s first hydrogen train.

This test, it said, which is aimed at matching the drive cycle simulation for the proposed Jind-Sonipat route, marks the completion of the stationary testing phase for the Driving Motor Coach subassemblies.

The hydrogen train represents a significant milestone in India’s push towards greener and more sustainable rail transport. The successful completion of this performance test is a key step in the train’s development process, ensuring that its fuel cell and battery systems are capable of meeting the operational demands of the Jind-Sonipat section.

Railways to run 35 Hydrogen trains

In a written reply to a Rajya Sabha question last year, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw provided details about Indian Railways' plans for hydrogen trains. The Railway aims to deploy 35 hydrogen trains under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative, with each train costing approximately Rs 80 crore and ground infrastructure at Rs 70 crore per route for heritage and hill routes.

Additionally, Indian Railways has launched a pilot project to retrofit existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rakes with hydrogen fuel cells. This project, including ground infrastructure, has been awarded at a cost of Rs 111.83 crore and is planned for the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway.

While the initial operational costs of hydrogen fuel trains may be high, they are expected to decrease as more trains are introduced. Hydrogen fuel promises significant environmental benefits, supporting zero-carbon emission goals as a clean energy source.