Russia is currently in the process of building its first passenger train that is powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The experimental train, which is designated 62-4584, is expected to commence trials in 2027. The DTA-380A traction motor, which is rated at 380 kW and was developed domestically, is a critical element of the project. The motor, which was produced by TMH-Electrotech, a company based in Novocherkassk, underwent certification testing in October 2026. This was after the initial production of ten units.
The project is a component of Russia’s initiative to create hydrogen-powered railroad technology for non-electrified routes. The first deployment has been chosen to be on Sakhalin Island, with passenger services to be implemented after the completion of testing and certification.
Russia Develops 380 kW Hydrogen Train Motor
The DTA-380A is a squirrel-cage rotor, four-pole asynchronous electric motor. It transforms the electrical energy produced by hydrogen fuel cells into mechanical power that is used to operate the train’s wheelsets.
The motor, which is tailored to the 62-4584 hydrogen train, was created by TMH-Electrotech at its Novocherkassk facility.
Ten motors have been assembled by the manufacturer. The first motor was submitted for certification in October 2026, and eight units have been transferred to Tver Carriage Works for installation in the experimental train.
The motor’s performance and compliance with railroad operating requirements will be evaluated by the certification program. Its integration with the train’s fuel cells, power electronics, and battery storage system is also a critical component of the development program.
How the Hydrogen Train Works
The 62-4584 generates electricity by conducting an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in hydrogen fuel cells. The DTA-380A traction motors are powered by electricity, which is converted into mechanical energy to propel the train.
Hydrogen fuel cells, in contrast to diesel engines, do not generate carbon dioxide through combustion. The train is a zero-tailpipe-carbon-emission alternative to conventional diesel rolling stock due to the fact that their predominant reaction product is water.
The electricity produced by the fuel cells will be supplemented by the train’s battery storage. The objective of this hybrid arrangement is to enhance operational flexibility and extend the operational range.
Sakhalin to Receive Hydrogen-Powered Trains
The project involves Transmashholding (TMH), Russian Railways (RZD), Rosatom, and the Sakhalin regional government. It is a component of a broader initiative to establish hydrogen production, storage, and refueling infrastructure on the island.
The 62-4584 is intended to accommodate 550 to 875 passengers, contingent upon its configuration. It is expected that the hydrogen-powered range will exceed 480 kilometers in a single configuration and 700 kilometers in a two-car configuration. An additional range of at least 40 kilometers will be provided by battery storage.
The hydrogen fuel-cell technology for the train is being developed by Rosatom. The project also encompasses the development of specialized hydrogen refueling infrastructure to facilitate regular railroad operations.
The initial operating environment for evaluating hydrogen propulsion as an alternative to diesel traction is provided by the non-electrified railroad routes of Sakhalin.
Train Assembly Nears Completion Ahead of 2027 Trials
The first train is being assembled at the Demikhovsky Machine-Building Plant (DMZ), following the manufacture of its car bodies and structural components at Tver Carriage Works.
On October 15, 2026, Sakhalin Governor Valery Limarenko and representatives of Russian Railways and Transmashholding visited DMZ to review the project’s progress. Assembly was reported to be nearing completion.
Tver Carriage Works had despatched four driving-car bodies and two sets of components for the booster section in January 2026 to assist with the assembly program.
The Moscow region is set to start running trials in 2027. Subsequently, the train will be relocated to Sakhalin for additional testing and preparation for passenger operations.
Hydrogen Safety and Passenger Features
The train incorporates dedicated safety systems for hydrogen storage and operation. These consist of automatic hydrogen supply isolation, emergency shutoff mechanisms, ventilation systems, fire detection equipment, and hydrogen concentration sensors.
The primary propulsion equipment and hydrogen systems are located in the booster section.
Wide entrance doors, inter-carriage gangways, air conditioning with air disinfection, passenger information displays, and USB Type-A and Type-C charging outlets are among the passenger amenities. The low-floor design also enhances accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility.
Commercial Operations Expected in 2029
While previous announcements suggested that passenger services could commence in 2028, the Eastern Hydrogen Cluster schedule, which is more detailed, specifies that commercial operations are targeted for January 2029.
Two hydrogen-powered trains are expected to arrive in Sakhalin in the second quarter of 2027. Supervised operational testing is planned to continue through the end of 2028 before the scheduled commercial launch.
In conclusion,
The DTA-380A motor and 62-4584 train represent a new development in Russia’s domestic railway engineering programme. The commercial feasibility of hydrogen propulsion as a viable alternative to diesel trains on non-electrified railroad routes will be determined by the 2027 trials.