China neighbor plans 'world’s largest' hydrogen freight locomotive

India’s Concord Control Systems Limited (CNCRD) has secured a $5 million contract with NTPC Limited to develop the world’s most powerful hydrogen locomotive propulsion system, converting a conventional diesel locomotive into a 3,100-horsepower hydrogen-powered engine. This project, executed in collaboration with Concord’s subsidiary Advance Rail Controls Pvt. Ltd. and Railway Engineering Works, more than doubles the current global hydrogen locomotive power benchmark of approximately 1,600 hp. The initiative integrates indigenous engineering, hydrogen technology, and railway expertise, positioning India at the forefront of sustainable rail innovation. The project aligns with India’s national green hydrogen mission and Indian Railways’ ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2030, significantly ahead of the original 2070 goal. NTPC views the locomotive as a flagship demonstration of hydrogen’s viability in heavy transport, while Concord emphasizes the breakthrough as a major step in advancing zero-emission propulsion systems. Beyond domestic impact, the collaboration under the Make in India initiative aims to establish India