What is a Hydrogen Train? Route, Speed, Ticket Price & Engine Explained

India has launched its first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana. Here's a detailed look at how the train works, its engine, speed, route, ticket fare and environmental benefits.

New Delhi: A hydrogen train is a passenger train powered by hydrogen fuel cells instead of a conventional diesel engine. Hydrogen stored in onboard tanks reacts with oxygen inside fuel cells to generate electricity, which powers the train's electric motors. The only direct by-product of this process is water vapour, making hydrogen trains a cleaner alternative to diesel-powered locomotives.

Route and Distance

India's first hydrogen-powered train operates on the Jind–Sonipat railway section in Haryana via Gohana. The route covers a distance of approximately 89 kilometres and has been selected as the country's pilot hydrogen rail corridor.

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Speed and Capacity

The train has a design speed of 110 kmph, while its maximum operational speed is 75 kmph. It consists of 10 passenger coaches with a carrying capacity of around 2,600 passengers, making it suitable for regional passenger services.

Engine and Technology

The train is equipped with a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. Instead of burning diesel, the fuel cell converts hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical process. The generated electricity powers traction motors that drive the train, resulting in quieter operation and zero tailpipe emissions.

Ticket Price

Passengers are expected to pay fares similar to existing passenger train services on the route. According to reports, ticket prices are likely to range between ₹5 and ₹25, depending on the travel distance, making the service affordable for regular commuters.

Hydrogen train: FAQs answered

Q1. What fuel does a hydrogen train use?

A hydrogen train uses compressed hydrogen gas stored in onboard tanks. The hydrogen reacts with oxygen in a fuel cell to generate electricity, which powers the train's electric motors. The only direct emission is water vapour.

Also Read: India’s First Bullet Train To Launch On August 15, 2027: First route, phased rollout and key details inside

Q2. What is the maximum speed of a hydrogen train?

India's first hydrogen train has a design speed of 110 kmph, while its maximum operational speed is 75 kmph.

Q3. Which is India's first hydrogen train?

India's first hydrogen-powered passenger train was launched on the Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana. It is equipped with a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system and is being operated by Indian Railways as a pilot green mobility project.

Q4. Is a hydrogen train eco-friendly?

Yes. Hydrogen trains are considered eco-friendly because they produce zero tailpipe carbon emissions. The fuel cell emits only water vapour, making them cleaner and quieter than diesel-powered trains.

Q5. How is a hydrogen train different from an electric train?

Both hydrogen and electric trains use electric motors, but the source of electricity is different. An electric train draws power from overhead wires or a third rail, whereas a hydrogen train generates electricity onboard using hydrogen fuel cells. This allows hydrogen trains to operate on non-electrified railway lines without relying on external power infrastructure.