Ferrovie del Sud Est, the transport operator of Italy’s Puglia region, has awarded a contract to Alstom for the supply of two Coradia Stream H hydrogen trains.
Ferrovie Nord Milano is also making strides in embracing hydrogen technology, signing a second order for two Coradia Stream H trains, adding to the six already in the pipeline. The existing framework agreement allows for the acquisition of a total of 14 trains. The collaboration between Ferrovie Nord Milano and Alstom previously unveiled Italy’s inaugural hydrogen train at EXPO Ferroviaria in October 2023.
The Coradia Stream H trains are built on Alstom’s single-deck Coradia Stream regional train platform, tailored for the European market and manufactured in Italy. When powered by green hydrogen, these trains operate with zero direct CO2 emissions, aligning with the global push for eco-friendly transportation. Alstom’s commitment to sustainability positions the company as a pioneer in investing in hydrogen trains as an alternative to diesel for non-electrified rail lines.
The heart of the hydrogen technology lies in the “power car,” an intermediate railcar generating energy through a combination of hydrogen and external air’s oxygen. This innovative process produces energy without emitting CO2 into the atmosphere. High-performance lithium-ion batteries store the generated energy, seamlessly integrated with the hydrogen cells to optimize fuel usage during acceleration. The project, part of the IPCEI Hy2Tech programme, is receiving funding from the European Union’s NextGenerationEU initiative.
Alstom’s commitment to the project involves several plants in Italy. The Savigliano site plays a pivotal role in development, certification, production, and testing. The Vado Ligure site is dedicated to outfitting the “power car” with the technologically advanced hydrogen-related components. Additionally, the Sesto San Giovanni site contributes essential components, while the Bologna site focuses on the development of the signaling system.
The adoption of hydrogen trains in Puglia and beyond holds promising implications for sustainable transit. With zero direct CO2 emissions during operation, the Coradia Stream H trains not only offer an environmentally friendly alternative but also provide passengers with the exceptional comfort associated with electric variants.
As Italy’s rail network undergoes this transformative shift, Alstom’s hydrogen-powered trains represent a milestone in sustainable transportation, setting the stage for a cleaner, greener future in rail travel.
