This is a major milestone for the decarbonization of rail transport: Together with partners such as Alstom, VPS Verkehrsbetriebe Peine-Salzgitter/Salzgitter AG, the Technical University of Braunschweig, and WTZ Roßlau, we have succeeded in converting the world’s first shunting locomotive from diesel to direct hydrogen combustion.

We are delighted that another key project has become a reality at the Hydrogen Campus Salzgitter. The industrial test operation that is now beginning will provide valuable insights into how to make the technology fit for widespread use – an important step on the road to a climate-neutral industry.

Convincing facts:

• Approximately 1,000 diesel shunting locomotives are in use in Germany, and around 4,000 across Europe.
• Each diesel shunting locomotive emits around 150 tons of CO₂ per year.
• Conversion will save up to 3,000 tons of CO₂ in 15-20 years – equivalent to the emissions of 650 cars.

The CO₂ savings potential of converting shunting locomotives from diesel to hydrogen propulsion is therefore considerable.

This sends a strong signal for sustainable mobility – and is a fine example of how research, industry, and local authorities are working together to shape the future.