Alstom’s hydrogen-powered train, the Coradia iLint, is poised to make its debut in France, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards sustainable rail transport.
Alstom’s Valenciennes test center will host the unveiling of the Coradia iLint on September 6, offering stakeholders in the railway industry a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technology. The successful validation of the iLint on the German rail network underscores its potential for widespread adoption across Europe.
The Coradia iLint is slated to operate on the Tours-Loches line starting September, representing a significant step towards integrating hydrogen trains into France’s rail network. Despite delays due to line renovations, Alstom remains committed to showcasing the iLint’s capabilities in real-world conditions. Production of the iLint is set to commence in February 2022, with delivery to Lower Saxony and Hesse scheduled thereafter.
Alstom’s presentation of the Coradia iLint in Valenciennes underscores its potential to cater to the needs of small rail lines. However, preferences for medium capacity trains, such as the dual-mode Régiolis, pose challenges for widespread adoption. Despite orders for 12 hydrogen trains in France, regions prioritize dual-mode options, indicating a nuanced market landscape.
Beyond France, Alstom is actively pursuing hydrogen train projects in Italy and England. The development of a hydrogen-powered Smart Coradia for Milan’s northern region highlights Alstom’s commitment to expanding its hydrogen train portfolio globally. Additionally, retrofit projects like the Breeze train in England demonstrate Alstom’s versatility in adapting existing rail infrastructure for zero-emission operations.
