MOSCOW: Russia has completed the assembly of its first hydrogen-powered passenger train, which is designed to travel more than 435 miles (700 kilometres) without refuelling.
Built by Transmashholding (TMH), the train is intended to operate on Sakhalin Island in Russia’s Far East as part of efforts to introduce cleaner alternatives to conventional diesel-powered railway transport.
Unlike traditional trains that rely on diesel engines, the new train uses hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity and power its motors. During operation, the system produces water instead of diesel exhaust emissions.
The hydrogen-powered train will be available in two configurations, with different passenger capacities and operating ranges.
The two-car version is designed to cover more than 435 miles (700 kilometres) on a single supply of hydrogen, while the three-car version is expected to have a range exceeding 298 miles (480 kilometres).
Initial testing is scheduled to begin in November 2026, followed by additional testing and certification in 2027. Passenger services are expected to start by the end of 2027.
The project aims to provide a cleaner transportation option for railway routes that do not have overhead electric wires, where diesel-powered trains are commonly used.
The development marks a step towards introducing hydrogen technology into passenger rail transport, offering an alternative to conventional diesel engines while reducing exhaust emissions during operation.
