A monumental transformation is underway in the world of locomotives. Hydrogen trains are already rolling in over a dozen countries, signaling an inevitable shift in rail transportation. Recent news reports highlight this trend. In April, CSX debuted its first hydrogen-powered freight locomotive; in May, Alstom was recognized by Fast Company for its first H2-powered Canadian passenger train; and in June, Stadler delivered in California the first hybrid hydrogen and battery electric passenger train meeting Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations. The activity is not just limited to North America. Similar demonstration projects are occurring throughout Europe and the U.K., as well as in Korea, China, Japan, and India.

While these stories might seem like isolated events, they signal a dramatic shift driven by market dynamics and the pressing need to decarbonize. These dual influences are propelling railway systems worldwide toward the fourth major transformation in locomotive power in the industry’s 200+ year history.

Historical Waves of Locomotive Innovation

The first wave began with high-pressure steam-powered locomotives in the early 1800s, starting in the U.K. The technology advanced rapidly, and by the mid-19th century, steam engines were the backbone of transportation worldwide.

The second major transformation occurred towards the end of the 19th century with the introduction of electric locomotives, driven by the need for cleaner trains, especially in underground subways and tunnels. This change was spearheaded in Germany with Werner von Siemens’ demonstration of the first electric passenger train in 1879 and the transition in the 1920s to alternating current technology, which made it feasible to electrify longer rail lines.

The third wave saw the rise of diesel-electric locomotives, which displaced steam engines everywhere electrification was not feasible. This transition began in the U.S. in 1940 with General Motors’ Electro-Motive Division and was largely concluded by 1960 in North America.