In a global first for clean rail technology, Concord Control Systems Limited (CNCRD) has secured a Rs. 47 crore order from NTPC Limited to develop the world’s most powerful hydrogen-fuelled locomotive propulsion system. This marks a major leap in India’s push toward net-zero rail transport.

The project will see the conversion of a diesel locomotive into a 3,100 horsepower hydrogen-powered engine — the highest-ever horsepower achieved for hydrogen rail propulsion anywhere in the world. The work will be executed through Concord’s wholly owned subsidiary, Advance Rail Controls Pvt. Ltd. (ARCPL), in collaboration with Railway Engineering Works.

The milestone places India firmly at the forefront of heavy-duty green rail innovation, far surpassing the current global benchmark of around 1,600 HP for hydrogen-powered rail systems. Unlike experimental pilots elsewhere, Concord’s system is designed as a commercially deployable solution for large-scale freight operations.

NTPC, India’s largest integrated power utility and a leader in the country’s green hydrogen mission, is positioning the project as a flagship initiative to demonstrate hydrogen’s viability as a real-world alternative to diesel in heavy rail transport.

Speaking on the announcement, Gaurav Lath, Joint Managing Director, Concord Control Systems Limited, said, “At Concord, we are proud to pioneer the world’s first 3,100 HP hydrogen locomotive propulsion system for the Public Sector giant NTPC on this nationally significant green hydrogen initiative.

"As a research-backed railway technology company, our conviction is to push the boundaries of innovation, and our promise is to deliver propulsion systems that meaningfully advance the global journey towards zero emissions. Hydrogen-powered locomotives represent a decisive step in creating future-ready, sustainable railway starting in India, aiming for the world.”

Nitin Jain, Joint Managing Director, Concord Control Systems Limited, highlighted the broader significance of the project.

"This landmark project represents a significant step forward in India’s clean mobility journey. The development of a high-horsepower hydrogen and battery-powered locomotive underscores the strength of indigenous engineering and cross-sector collaboration. We are proud to work with NTPC as our customer to deliver a solution that supports India’s decarbonization goals while setting new global benchmarks in sustainable rail technology.”

From NTPC’s side, the project is being seen as both a technological and strategic breakthrough for India’s hydrogen ecosystem.

Commenting on the award, Ritwick Ghosh of NTPC said, “This is a dream realized as a Mechanical Engineer and a passionate hydrogen enthusiast, building from a conceptual thought to a project award. The project will also solve the hydrogen off-taker deficit.

"This is also the moment where we see how Public Sectors make a difference in developing the country’s infrastructure in energy transition by taking a step beyond the regular limits and how private sectors support things through taking risks. I am now excited to see how we go from Paper to Track.”

The initiative aligns closely with the vision of Indian Railways’ goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 — two decades ahead of India’s national 2070 net-zero target. It also strengthens India’s broader strategy on decarbonisation, green energy adoption, and sustainable transport infrastructure.

Globally, the announcement comes as regions such as the European Union and the United States target climate-neutral rail by 2050, while countries including Japan, Australia, Brazil, South Africa, Indonesia, and China continue hydrogen and electrified rail pilots.

India’s move into ultra-high-horsepower hydrogen locomotives positions it not just as a participant, but as a technology leader in zero-emission heavy rail.

Beyond domestic deployment, the breakthrough opens the door for Concord’s international expansion, with potential partnerships across Europe, Japan, Australia, the Middle East, Africa, and North America.

The NTPC–Concord collaboration also reinforces India’s standing as a hub for next-generation railway innovation under the Make in India initiative, with long-term export potential for hydrogen-powered locomotives.