Stadler unveils world's first narrow-gauge hydrogen trains

Stadler Rail has unveiled the world’s first narrow-gauge hydrogen-powered trains, designed for regional rail networks in southern Italy. The company is currently manufacturing 21 hydrogen trains for three Italian transport operators: Azienda Regionale Sarda Trasporti (ARST) in Sardinia, Ferrovie della Calabria (FdC) in Calabria, and Ferrovia Circumetnea (FCE) in Sicily.

To facilitate testing, Stadler has commissioned a specialized four-kilometer test track in Hemishofen, Switzerland. This track features a 950-millimeter gauge, matching the “Italian meter gauge” used in the target regions. This infrastructure allows the company to test hydrogen propulsion, speed, and fuel levels locally in Switzerland rather than waiting to conduct trials on the final deployment routes in Italy.

The project aims to replace diesel-powered services with more sustainable technology. For instance, the ten trains destined for Sardinia are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 2,100 tons annually compared to existing diesel models.