Italian hydrogen train revealed

author: FutureCar Staff    

Lombardia regional transport company Ferrovie Nord Milano and Alstom have unveiled the first hydrogen fuel cell powered Coradia Stream multiple-unit at the Expo Ferroviaria trade fair in Milano on October 3. This marks the introduction of the first fuel cell multiple-unit to be used in revenue service in Italy.

As part of a contract signed in November 2020, Alstom will supply six hydrogen multiple-units with the option for eight more. The initial six units are scheduled to begin service from late 2024 or early 2025 on the non-electrified Brescia – Iseo – Edolo line, which is managed by Ferrovienord and operated by the Trenord joint venture. These units will replace the aging Fiat Aln668 diesel multiple-units.

The procurement of these trains is part of the H2iseO project, which aims to create Italy's first 'hydrogen valley'. This project involves the construction of three plants for hydrogen production, storage, and distribution at Brescia, Iseo, and Edolo. Initially, the Iseo plant will use steam methane reforming, while the other two plants will produce 'green hydrogen' using renewable energy starting in 2025.

In addition to the trains, the H2iseO project also includes the commissioning of 40 hydrogen buses, which will replace the entire fleet used by Ferrovienord Autoservizi.

The Coradia Stream multiple-unit trainsets have 260 seats and a range of 600 km without needing to refuel.

These trains were developed at Alstom's Savigliano site, with certification, production, and testing taking place at Vado Ligure. Components for the trains are supplied from the Sesto San Giovanni plant, and the signalling equipment is sourced from Bologna.

"Ferrovienord is working diligently to build the hydrogen plants and related infrastructure in preparation for the train's testing phase and eventual commercial service," said Ferrovienord President Fulvio Caradonna.

FutureCar Staff