The SM42-6Dn train is powered by two Ballard 85kW fuel cells, paired with battery technology. The locomotive passed preliminary operational testing in Bydgoszcz, Poland, in 2022.
It was first operated yesterday (September 3) on the Jelenia Góra to Karpacz route, located near the Czech border.
Lower Silesia, which has the most non-electrified railway lines in Poland, is a natural testbed for hydrogen trains to replace diesel on routes where electrification is not viable.
“Electrification of railway lines is the task of the government, but we do not rest on our laurels, and we are also looking for modern, ecological solutions ourselves,” explained Paweł Gancarz, the regional head of government (Marshal) for Lower Silesia.
“That is why Koleje Dolnośląskie began testing hydrogen-powered locomotives.”
Further trials are scheduled for today (September 4) and September 7 with other train operators in western Poland.
PESA’s locomotive has already been trialled in Sweden and is also in commercial cargo service with Orlen Transport.
“We have been testing hydrogen-powered vehicles of our production in working conditions since 2023, mainly in cargo conditions,” said Krzysztof Zdziarski, President of the Management Board of PESA Bydgoszcz.
“Now it’s time for passenger transport, on non-electrified routes, they will be an alternative to diesels.”
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