METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Alstom's hydrogen fuel-cell train approved for German commercial ops

Two Coradia iLint prototypes will enter pilot operation in the Elbe-Weser network, with passenger service scheduled for late summer.

July 11, 2018
Alstom's hydrogen fuel-cell train approved for German commercial ops

Coradia iLint is the world’s first passenger train powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, which produces electrical power for traction.

Alstom/Rene Frampe

2 min to read


Coradia iLint is the world’s first passenger train powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, which produces electrical power for traction. Alstom/Rene Frampe

Alstom’s Coradia iLint, the world’s first hydrogen fuel-cell passenger train, was granted approval by the German Railway Office (EBA) for passenger service in Germany.

“This approval is a major milestone for the Coradia iLint and a decisive step towards clean and future-oriented mobility. Alstom is immensely proud of this hydrogen-powered regional train, a breakthrough in emission-free mobility, and the fact that it will now go into regular passenger operation,” said Wolfram Schwab, Alstom VP, R&D and Innovation.

Ad Loading...

In November 2017, Alstom and the local transport authority of Lower Saxony (LNVG) signed a contract for the delivery of 14 hydrogen fuel-cell trains, along with 30 years of maintenance and energy supply. The 14 trains will be produced by Alstom for LNVG's vehicle pool and will transport passengers between Cuxhaven, Bremerhaven, Bremervörde, and Buxtehude from Dec. 2021. Following this approval granted by EBA, the two Coradia iLint prototypes will enter pilot operation in the Elbe-Weser network. Passenger service is scheduled for late summer.

Coradia iLint is the world’s first passenger train powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, which produces electrical power for traction. This zero-emission train emits low levels of noise, with exhaust being only steam and condensed water. The Coradia iLint is special for its combination of different innovative elements: clean energy conversion, flexible energy storage in batteries, and smart management of traction power and available energy. Specifically designed for operation on non-electrified lines, it enables clean, sustainable train operation while ensuring high levels of performance.

The Coradia iLint was designed by Alstom teams in Salzgitter (Germany), center of excellence for regional trains, and in Tarbes (France), center of excellence for traction systems. This project benefits from the support of the German ministry of economy and mobility. Alstom‘s development of the Coradia iLint was funded with $9.3 million from the German government as part of the National Innovation Program for Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology.

More Technology

METRO Biz Briefs cover photo

STV Launches Power Practice and More in Biz Briefs

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from SilverRide, Complete Coach Works, and more.

Read More →
Cover for Part 2 with AC Transit's Cecil Blandon
ManagementMay 8, 2026

Bus Tech Talk: Part 2 with AC Transit's Cecil Blandon

In Part 2 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his maintenance team’s work with various types of vehicle, training, augmented reality, and more.

Read More →
A Waev Gem vehicle with a ramp deployed.

ABC Teams with Waev, Knorr-Bremse in Boston Top Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
Steve Goodreau
Technologyby Alex RomanMay 6, 2026

Trackless Rapid Transit: Hype or Viable Option?

Steve Goodreau of WSP explores the technology’s promise, limitations and where it may fit in the evolving transit landscape.

Read More →
Terrel Smith

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
An MBTA paratransit vehicle.

FINAL CALL: Apply Now for METRO's 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards

Now in its latest edition, the awards recognize forward-thinking solutions that improve safety, operational efficiency, sustainability, rider experience, and overall system performance.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Cover photo for Part 2 with Cecil Blandon
Managementby Alex RomanApril 30, 2026

Bus Tech Talk: Part 2 with AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon

In Part 2 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his maintenance team’s work with various types of vehicle, training, augmented reality, and more.

Read More →