The transport authority of Lower Saxony in Germany has unveiled a bold plan to deploy 102 electric trains starting in 2029. This move comes as a potential setback for hydrogen-powered trains, specifically Alstom’s iLint Coradia, which currently runs on the EVB network.
The Lower Saxony transport authority argues that electrifying the lines and replacing diesel trains with electric ones is a more cost-effective and space-efficient solution compared to using hydrogen technology.
The Lower Saxony transport authority (LVNG) recently announced its intention to introduce 102 electric trains on the network between the Ems and the Elbe by 2037. These trains will operate emission-free, contributing to the region’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. The authority believes that electrifying the lines and switching to electric trains offers a more economical and spacious solution compared to using hydrogen trains.
Alstom, a prominent player in the transportation industry, had previously secured an order from the Lower Saxony transport authority for the iLint Coradia, the world’s first fuel cell train. The iLint Coradia operates on hydrogen, providing a range of over 1,000 km on the EVB network. However, the recent announcement by LVNG challenges the viability of hydrogen trains, raising concerns for Alstom’s hydrogen-powered ventures.
The LVNG’s market research and cost analysis indicate that electrifying the Osnabrück – Oldenburg line is particularly economically viable. This suggests that the upfront investment in electrification and electric trains outweighs the costs and complexities associated with hydrogen-powered solutions. The decision to prioritize electric trains aligns with the authority’s goal of achieving a fully zero-emission train network in the coming years.
Germany is at the forefront of the debate between hydrogen-powered trains and electric trains. While hydrogen technology has garnered significant attention and investment in recent years, concerns about its cost-effectiveness and practicality are emerging. A study commissioned by the Baden-Württemberg State Transport Organizing Authority NVBW previously raised similar concerns, suggesting that hydrogen trains may be too expensive to be a viable long-term solution.
Despite the challenges in the hydrogen train market, Alstom remains a key player in the transportation sector with diverse offerings. In addition to hydrogen trains, the company also produces electric trains, offering flexibility to cater to different market needs. Recently, Alstom secured an order for 40 electric trains in Schleswig-Holstein, Northern Germany, showcasing the continued demand for electrified solutions.
Germany’s commitment to sustainable mobility remains unwavering, with plans to introduce zero-emission trains by 2037. The decision to prioritize electric trains is a significant step towards achieving this goal. As the transportation industry continues to evolve, the debate between hydrogen and electric trains will persist, shaping the future of clean and efficient rail travel in Germany and beyond.
