Polish manufacturer Pesa will develop the country’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train capable of running on both electrified and non-electrified tracks with a 36 million PLN subsidy.
New Hybrid Train Technology
Train manufacturer Pesa received over 36 million PLN from the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management for this project. The resulting vehicle will be Poland’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train that can additionally draw power from overhead lines.
In practice, this means the train will be able to service both electrified and non-electrified sections. Passengers will not need to transfer at the junction between electrified and non-electrified segments.
Testing Timeline and Industry Interest
Pesa states the vehicle should be ready by June, after which testing and certification will take place. According to Pesa, there is interest from carriers in such vehicles.
Previous Hydrogen Projects
This is the second hydrogen vehicle being prepared by the Bydgoszcz-based Pesa. Nearly three years ago, the company built a hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive. The locomotive is currently used by Orlen. The manufacturer is in talks with one Swedish operator about purchasing such locomotives.
Challenges for Hydrogen Rail Technology
In Europe, hydrogen technology is gaining popularity in rail transport quite slowly. Obstacles remain high hydrogen prices and lack of infrastructure for hydrogen refueling.
Alternatives and Polish Rail Context
Vehicles that can service both electrified and non-electrified sections could potentially gain popularity. In Poland, nearly 40% of railway lines are still without overhead lines. An alternative to such trains could be diesel-electric vehicles powered by both a diesel engine and an electric motor drawing power from overhead lines. PKP Intercity has ordered such vehicles, which will be supplied by Newag.
