TÜV SÜD and MEDHA Servo Drives sign MoU to advance Hydrogen Rail Technologies in India

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): Global testing, inspection and certification leader TÜV SÜD and Indian railway technology company MEDHA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration on hydrogen-powered rail vehicle technologies with Indian Railways. The agreement follows the successful approval and inauguration of India's first indigenously developed hydrogen-electric train, reinforcing the partners' commitment to advancing safe, sustainable and future-ready railway solutions.

The renewed partnership builds on the successful execution of India's flagship hydrogen rail project and signals the next phase of collaboration aimed at accelerating the adoption of hydrogen-powered mobility across the Indian railway network.

Partnership Builds on India's First Hydrogen Train Success

The MoU comes shortly after the inauguration of India's first hydrogen-electric multiple unit, which was officially flagged off on 17 July 2026. Developed through the combined efforts of MEDHA, TÜV SÜD and Indian Railways, the project marked a major milestone in India's journey towards zero-emission rail transportation.

In addition to the hydrogen-powered train, the project included the development and operational approval of a dedicated hydrogen production and refuelling station, creating a complete ecosystem for hydrogen-based railway operations.

The successful commissioning of the project demonstrates India's growing capability to develop and deploy advanced clean-energy technologies for rail transport while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

Specialised Expertise Ensured Safe Deployment

The hydrogen train project was delivered through the complementary expertise of the participating organisations.

MEDHA was responsible for integrating the hydrogen fuel cell-based propulsion system into a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) platform. The company also carried out static and dynamic testing, performance validation and oscillation trials to ensure the train met operational requirements.

TÜV SÜD, one of the world's leading Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) organisations, provided Independent Safety Assessments (ISA) for both the hydrogen propulsion system and the traction battery system. The company also assessed the hydrogen production and refuelling infrastructure to ensure compliance with stringent international safety and operational standards.

These independent safety evaluations were instrumental in securing operational approval for India's first hydrogen-powered train.

"The successful collaboration between technology developers, safety certification agencies and Indian Railways demonstrates how innovation and rigorous engineering can work together to deliver next-generation rail solutions. Hydrogen-powered trains have the potential to redefine sustainable railway transportation in India by offering clean, efficient and low-emission mobility. Continued collaboration between industry leaders will be essential for scaling hydrogen technologies across the country's rapidly modernising railway network," said Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group.

MoU to Expand Hydrogen Rail Collaboration

Under the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, TÜV SÜD and MEDHA will further strengthen their cooperation on future hydrogen-powered railway projects in India.

The partnership will focus on expanding the deployment of hydrogen propulsion technologies while continuing to provide Independent Safety Assessments for hydrogen-powered rolling stock, traction systems and associated infrastructure. The collaboration is expected to support the safe introduction of advanced hydrogen technologies as Indian Railways pursues its long-term decarbonisation strategy.

The agreement also reflects the increasing importance of safety certification and regulatory compliance in the development of next-generation railway technologies.

Global Expertise Supporting India's Green Rail Vision

TÜV SÜD is internationally recognised for its expertise in railway testing, inspection and certification. Through its dedicated Rail Business Unit and a global network of more than 550 rail experts, the organisation supports railway manufacturers, operators, infrastructure managers and government authorities across high-speed rail, conventional rail, metro systems and urban transit projects.

Beyond certification services, TÜV SÜD also provides technical advisory support for complex railway systems, helping ensure that emerging technologies are integrated safely and efficiently throughout their lifecycle.

Commenting on the collaboration, Simon Lemin, CEO of TÜV SÜD South Asia, said, "The successful approval of India's first hydrogen-powered train is an important milestone in the country's transition towards cleaner, more sustainable mobility. At TÜV SÜD, we believe innovation can only succeed when it is underpinned by safety, reliability and public trust. We are proud to have supported this pioneering project through our independent safety expertise and look forward to continuing our collaboration with MEDHA and Indian Railways as hydrogen technologies become an increasingly important part of India's transport future."

Sumit Singhal, Senior Vice President, TÜV SÜD South Asia, added, "The safety requirements for hydrogen applications in the rail sector are extremely complex and challenging. We are honoured that MEDHA and Indian Railways have placed their trust in our Independent Safety Assessments for this project and that we will further strengthen our collaboration in the future."

Supporting India's Sustainable Railway Future

The expanded partnership aligns with Indian Railways' broader vision of adopting cleaner propulsion technologies alongside large-scale network electrification, energy efficiency initiatives and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

As hydrogen-powered trains gain momentum globally, collaborations between technology developers, certification bodies and railway authorities will play a crucial role in ensuring safe and reliable deployment. The TÜV SÜD–MEDHA partnership is expected to contribute significantly to the future development of hydrogen rail technology in India, helping establish a robust ecosystem for zero-emission railway operations while supporting the country's vision of sustainable and environmentally responsible transportation.