The Coradia iLint, built by Alstom in Salzgitter, Germany, makes use of on-board fuel cells to turn hydrogen and oxygen into energy, reducing operating emissions to zero.

This will be the first time a hydrogen train will operate in daily passenger service for the Austrian Federal Railways, ÖBB, until the end of November.

Following a successful test run in Northern Germany between 2018 and 2020, the Coradia iLint train will now prove its worth in Austria for three months, during which it will carry passengers on geographically difficult routes.

“With its use in regular passenger operations for ÖBB, our innovation train Coradia iLint has reached the next milestone. The train’s emission-free drive technology offers a climate-friendly alternative to conventional diesel trains, especially on non-electrified lines. I am particularly pleased that ÖBB, a strong and long-term partner in the European mobility market, is convinced of our technology and its advantages.”

Dr. Jörg Nikutta, Alstom’s CEO in Germany and Austria.

“We clearly see ourselves as pioneers in testing hydrogen technology on rail. As the largest climate protection company in Austria, we are actively shaping the mobility of the future with technological alternatives.”

Andreas Matthä, CEO of ÖBB-Holding.

The Coradia iLint is the world’s first passenger train to operate on a hydrogen fuel cell, producing electrical energy for propulsion. This completely emission-free train is quite and only emits water and steam.

The Coradia iLint is distinguished by various innovations: clean energy conversion, compact battery energy storage and intelligent motive power management, as well as available energy. Built specifically for use on non-electrified tracks, it allows safe , sustainable train operation while retaining high performance standards.