Stadler Tests First Narrow-Gauge Hydrogen Train
The rail manufacturer is testing hydrogen-powered technology in Switzerland ahead of a 2028 launch in Sardinia.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Stadler has begun testing its new narrow-gauge hydrogen train on a dedicated track in Switzerland. The manufacturer aims to refine the propulsion system before deploying ten of these vehicles in Italy.
Why it matters
The testing program enables Stadler to optimize hydrogen-powered rail technology on a 950 mm gauge, a specialized track width necessary for upcoming deployments in Sardinia. This collaboration with operator ARST represents a significant step toward decarbonizing narrow-gauge rail networks.
The testing occurs on a 950 mm wide track spanning 4 kilometers between Hemishofen and Ramsen. Stadler is under contract to produce 10 hydrogen trains for ARST, with 21 total hydrogen vehicles slated for development.
The players
Stadler
Stadler is a Swiss rail vehicle manufacturing company known for designing trains for diverse and challenging railway network requirements.
ARST
ARST is a public transport operator in Sardinia that manages extensive rail and bus networks across the Italian island.
The details
The test train features two passenger cars pulled by a central Power Pack car that houses the hydrogen propulsion system. Because no narrow-gauge networks outside Italy support this specific track gauge, engineers installed a third rail inside existing infrastructure to facilitate real-world testing near the Stadler factory.
Timeline
ARST and Stadler signed a framework agreement for ten trains in 2023.
A specialized test track was laid between Hemishofen and Ramsen in Spring 2026.
Stadler unveiled the first hydrogen train unit in Erlen in June 2026.
Testing of the hydrogen propulsion system began in October 2026.
Passenger service is scheduled to launch in Sardinia in 2028.
Roadmap
This development marks a crucial shift in the rail industry as manufacturers pivot toward hydrogen propulsion for routes where electrification is technically impractical. It positions Stadler as a leader in specialized narrow-gauge solutions against traditional heavy-rail competitors.
The transition to hydrogen trains will provide passengers in Sardinia with cleaner, quieter travel options compared to existing diesel-powered rolling stock. These trains are designed to operate on existing narrow-gauge infrastructure without requiring expensive track electrification projects.
The takeaway
Hydrogen-powered rail offers a practical solution for regional networks where traditional electric infrastructure is too costly or difficult to install. Commuters in regions like Sardinia can expect modern, emission-free transportation as these specialized trains replace legacy diesel equipment.
What happens next
Stadler expects to see 21 hydrogen vehicles pass through the Hemishofen-Ramsen test track over the next three years. Additionally, ARST is currently constructing hydrogen fueling infrastructure in Mandas, Alghero, and Macomer to support the 2028 service launch.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in sustainable transit by visiting the Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Railway Supply.
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