This is a global order for the French automotive equipment supplier. OPmobility will supply both the fuel cells and the tanks for the hydrogen-powered regional trains that Stadler will deliver in Italy by the end of 2025.

The contract initially covers 15 trains. On behalf of Stadler, OPmobility will supply four 150 kW fuel cells per train. These will be NM 12 Twin fuel cells developed by EKPO (its joint venture with ElringKlinger). The group will also be responsible for installing 8 tanks at 350 bar (storing a total of 185 kg of hydrogen). This is just the beginning, since the press release refers to “deliveries in the coming years”.

Hydrogen trains are continuing to develop

In the midst of a wave of hydrogen bashing, this announcement confirms that hydrogen trains are continuing to develop. OPmobility points out that “these hydrogen trains can run on any type of line without major investment in infrastructure”. They represent “major growth potential at a time when a large proportion of the rail network remains non-electrified (around 28% of the network in China, 40% in Europe and 95% in the United States).

“This new contract reinforces OPmobility’s position as world leader in hydrogen mobility, capable of offering a complete range of technological solutions from storage systems to energy generation“, says Laurent Favre, Chief Executive Officer of OPmobility, with satisfaction. He continues: “The contract also confirms our conviction that hydrogen is an ideal solution for decarbonizing heavy mobility“.

The French group, which has announced orders worth 4 billion, has set itself precise targets for 2030: it is aiming for a 25% market share in hydrogen storage, 10% in EKPO fuel cell stacks and 10% in fuel cell systems.

Do you want to learn more about Italy and hydrogen? You can read our latest articles on the country here.

Article written by Laurent Meillaud and translated by Marina Leite