Concord Control Systems Limited (CNCRD) has secured a ₹47 crore work order from NTPC Limited to develop the world’s most powerful hydrogen-fuelled locomotive propulsion system, marking a major advancement in sustainable rail technology. The project will be executed through Concord’s wholly owned subsidiary, Advance Rail Controls Pvt Ltd (ARCPL), in collaboration with Railway Engineering Works. It involves converting an existing diesel locomotive into a 3,100 horsepower hydrogen-powered engine—currently the highest horsepower conversion of its kind anywhere in the world.
This initiative represents the first-ever attempt globally to deploy hydrogen propulsion at such a high power rating, significantly exceeding the previous international benchmark of approximately 1,600 horsepower for hydrogen rail applications. The project positions India at the forefront of heavy-duty hydrogen-powered rail innovation and reinforces NTPC’s leadership in advancing the country’s green hydrogen ecosystem.
Unlike experimental prototypes, Concord’s propulsion system is being developed as a commercially deployable solution intended for freight-scale operations. The project aims to demonstrate hydrogen’s operational viability for heavy-haul rail transport under real-world conditions, supporting India’s long-term decarbonisation and clean mobility objectives.
NTPC has identified hydrogen-based rail propulsion as a flagship initiative within its broader green hydrogen roadmap. The project also addresses the challenge of hydrogen offtake by creating a practical, large-scale industrial application for clean hydrogen.
Commenting on the development, Gaurav Lath, Joint Managing Director, Concord Control Systems Limited, said the project reflects the company’s focus on applied innovation. He noted that developing a 3,100 HP hydrogen locomotive propulsion system is a significant step toward enabling zero-emission rail transport, starting in India and extending to global markets.
Nitin Jain, Joint Managing Director, Concord Control Systems Limited, said the project highlights the strength of indigenous engineering and collaboration between public and private sectors. He added that the initiative sets new global reference points for sustainable rail technology while supporting national clean energy goals.
From NTPC, Dr Ritwick Ghosh described the project as the realisation of a long-standing vision to move hydrogen from concept to deployment. He emphasised the role of public sector leadership in advancing infrastructure for energy transition and expressed optimism about translating the project from design to on-track execution.
Concord Control Systems Limited is an RDSO-approved OEM specialising in embedded electronic systems and critical electronic solutions for Indian Railways. Aligned with national initiatives such as Gati Shakti, the company supports railway modernisation through advanced R&D, testing, and manufacturing capabilities, with a growing focus on global markets.
