KD Considers Purchase of Hydrogen and Battery Trains

Polish operator KD has launched consultations regarding the purchase of new trains to replace outdated rolling stock on non-electrified routes and transition to more environmentally friendly technologies. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The company is evaluating offers from train manufacturers, including hydrogen and battery models. The main goal is to assess the applicability of modern technologies and long-term operating costs of trains over a 30-year period.

Don’t miss…Alstom to Upgrade and Maintain Class 222 Trains for Lumo

KD is not limiting itself to a single option. In March 2025, the company ordered 10 diesel trains from Polish manufacturer Pesa to temporarily maintain services. However, the operator is committed to switching to clean energy sources.

In September 2024, the operator signed a contract with Pesa for the supply of 10 Elf electric trains. At the same time, a tender was launched to acquire up to seven used three-car trains due to insufficient funding for new rolling stock without European financial support.

Transition to Alternative Types of Trains

KD is exploring innovative solutions to develop passenger transport. The company aims to reduce emissions and lower dependence on fossil fuels, which is why it is engaging with suppliers of hydrogen and battery-powered trains.

The region’s transport strategy focuses on sustainability, making the modernization of rolling stock a strategic priority. Train manufacturers must offer solutions that meet both technical and financial criteria.

Economic Efficiency of New Trains

One of the key evaluation criteria is the total cost of train operations over 30 years. KD plans to consider not only the purchase price, but also fuel consumption, maintenance, repairs, and software updates.

If preliminary consultations confirm that hydrogen or battery-powered train models meet the company’s requirements, KD will launch a formal tender. Otherwise, the operator will continue using its existing diesel and electric trains.

Facing budget constraints and growing demand for transportation, KD is seeking a balance between technological innovation and financial efficiency. The selection of new trains could become a crucial step toward a more sustainable regional rail network.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: