Alstom’s Coradia iLint, the first hydrogen-powered train in the Americas, has been recognized as a finalist in Fast Company’s 2024 World Changing Ideas list. This list highlights ambitious projects that are shaping the world and driving innovation.
A Major Milestone in Green Mobility
Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas, expressed pride in this achievement: “The Coradia iLint’s recognition on the Fast Company World Changing Ideas list is a testament to green energy innovation across the Americas. This recognition highlights the expertise of our suppliers and staff who are dedicated to bringing low-carbon transportation options to communities worldwide.”
Global Recognition
Fast Company editor-in-chief Brendan Vaughan praised the global reach of the honorees, stating, “It’s inspiring to see how the world is coming together to devise inventive solutions to our most challenging problems. This year’s awards showcase the abundance of innovation and creativity around the globe.”
Revolutionary Hydrogen-Powered Train
The Coradia iLint is the first hydrogen-powered train to carry passengers in the Americas. During a demonstration project in Quebec from mid-June to the end of September 2023, it transported over 10,000 passengers. This project was a collaborative effort involving Alstom’s Green Innovation Centre, Train de Charlevoix, Accelera by Cummins, HTEC, Harnois Energies, and several institutional partners, including the Quebec Government and the Hydrogen Research Institute of the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières.
Environmental Impact
The hydrogen fuel cell-powered train emits only water and generates electricity from green hydrogen made from renewable resources. Over four months, the Coradia iLint saved 8,400 liters of diesel and prevented 22 tons of CO2 emissions compared to diesel trains in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Charlevoix. This initiative has paved the way for the broader adoption of green transit across North America.
Demonstrating Green Technology
Alstom and its partners hosted thirty-four delegations from across North America, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen propulsion technology. This project sets the stage for wider implementation of sustainable transportation solutions.
Global Success
The Coradia iLint has not only made waves in the Americas but also globally. It was the first hydrogen-powered train in passenger service worldwide and has now covered 2.8 million kilometers on hydrogen.
Awards and Recognition
In addition to being a finalist in Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas list, Alstom was named one of Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies in March 2024. The Coradia iLint demonstration project also won the CUTA 2023 Environmental Sustainability Award and the 2023 Hydrogen Mobility Award from the Canadian Hydrogen Convention.
A Bright Future
Alstom’s Coradia iLint represents a significant step towards sustainable and low-carbon transportation. This recognition and the successful demonstration project highlight the potential of hydrogen-powered trains to revolutionize the future of green transit.