POL-MIEDŹ TRANS tested a hydrogen locomotive
POL-MIEDŹ TRANS, a KGHM Group company, has completed four days of testing of an innovative hydrogen-powered locomotive. The tests were designed to test the technical performance, efficiency and safety of the new technology under industrial conditions. This is a step towards reducing CO₂ emissions and a foundation for further investment decisions in the area of low-emission transport.
Hydrogen for industry
The tests were carried out from 4 to 7 September 2025, mainly on the KGHM Group's internal infrastructure. Their aim was to test, among other things, hydrogen consumption, operational range and the vehicle's behaviour during manoeuvres and under heavy loads. The locomotive hauled sand, concentrate and copper ore in the vicinity of Lubin, Rudna and Polkowice.
‘Hydrogen is the future of rail transport, and for our Company it represents a real opportunity to reduce emissions and operating costs’, said Adam Najda, acting President of the Management Board of POL-MIEDŹ TRANS. ‘The company owns 65 diesel and electric locomotives, 19 of which are modernised SM42 type 6Dg locomotives. Their monthly operation involves the emission of 176 tonnes of CO₂ into the atmosphere. Hydrogen propulsion systems can significantly reduce this carbon footprint’, he emphasized.
The SM42-6Dn Hydrogen locomotive, developed and manufactured by PESA Bydgoszcz SA, is a response to the growing challenges of the energy transition. The hydrogen unit could in future replace the diesel locomotives used to transport copper concentrate and other materials in the service of KGHM's Main Process Line. Before it arrived in the Copper Belt, the vehicle underwent successful tests in Scandinavian markets. The series of tests in Lower Silesia began with a passenger run.
Low emission - a goal for KGHM
‘Reducing the carbon footprint and tackling climate change is a very important commitment for KGHM. We consistently implement measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our production processes. We involve in these measures Group companies that support the core technology pipeline and show potential in achieving KGHM's goals’, said Piotr Stryczek, Vice President of the Management Board for Corporate Affairs at KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. ‘The tests of a hydrogen-powered locomotive that have just been completed provide us with extensive materials for analysis. The experience gained will provide a solid foundation for KGHM Polska Miedź and POL-MIEDŹ Trans to carry out further joint work and to prepare for key investment decisions’, he added.
Innovative technology
The SM42-6Dn Hydrogen locomotive is primarily a shunting locomotive. The four-axle traction unit is equipped with 4x180 kW motors. At its heart are two 85 kW hydrogen cells, with the added bonus of an autonomous driving system allowing one-person radio control. The modern design of the locomotive is highlighted by the centrally located driver’s cab, which increases safety and comfort. The vehicle also features an obstacle recognition system.
