Italy’s transport operator FNM (Ferrovie Nord Milano) has ordered six hydrogen fuel cell trains from Alstom, with an option for eight further trains, for the Lombardy region.
The total contract value is 160 million euros. Alstom says it will make the first train delivery by the end of 2023.
These hydrogen trains, which will be the first hydrogen trains in Italy, will be based on Alstom’s Coradia Stream regional train platform. This Coradia Stream will feature the same fuel cell technology that is built into the Coradia iLint. Alstom will manufacture the Stream in Italy.
A benefit of hydrogen trains over diesel trains is that they don’t produce emissions in operation, meaning they have a lesser impact on air quality than their diesel counterparts. The Coradia Stream will still have the same operational performance, including range, as diesel trains, however.
“We are immensely proud to be introducing hydrogen train technology to Italy, and we recognise the trust placed in us by our Italian customer. This development confirms Alstom's role in defining the future of mobility.”
Hydrogen trains are a good transition solution for lines that are not yet electrified; alternatively they are suitable for lines that are characterised by low traffic volumes and low operating speeds.
Alstom’s Savigliano site will be responsible for project development, most of the manufacturing and the certification. Its Bologna site will deliver the on-board signalling equipment.
