First hydrogen TERs arriving in stations in 2027
Four French regions have ordered 12 Régiolis H2 trains. Validation testing started in 2024 and will continue in 2026 on a pre-series train. We take a closer look at these innovative regional trains, set to enter commercial service in mid-2027.
12 Régiolis H2 trainsets on order by 4 regions
In March 2021, 4 French regions—Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Grand Est and Occitanie—ordered dual-mode trainsets powered by electricity and hydrogen.
Soon
12
Régiolis H2 regional trains will replace diesel units
Diesel accounts for
26%
of the TER fleet’s energy consumption
Diesel currently generates
77%
of the TER fleet’s CO2 emissions
Our commitment to the planet
The first hydrogen TERs are set to begin commercial operation in mid-2027, and the shift to hydrogen is just one part of our commitment to eco-friendly mobility. At SNCF, we’ve spent years working with manufacturers to develop cleaner TER trains.
Where to find the Régiolis H2
- the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region will operate 3 trainsets on the Moulins–Clermont-Ferrand–Brioude line and the Lyon–Roanne–Clermont-Ferrand line.
- the Burgundy-Franche-Comté will operate 3 trainsets on the Dijon–Laroche-Migennes–Auxerre–Avallon line and the Dijon–Laroche-Migennes–Auxerre–Corbigny line.
- the Grand-Est region is expected to operate 3 trainsets on the Colmar–Metzeral line, pending confirmation.
- the Occitanie region will operate 3 trainsets on the Toulouse–Montréjeau–Luchon line.
The H2 will have
600 km
of range in the hydrogen version
It can carry
220
passengers
It can reach
160 km/h
running speed, the same speed as diesel TERs
How it works
In hydrogen trains, conventional diesel engines are replaced with fuel cells, batteries and hydrogen tanks. In the fuel cell on the H2 train’s roof, hydrogen from the tanks combines with oxygen in the air to produce electricity and power the train. And there’s only one waste product: water.
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Our commitment – hydrogen trains (0:53)
Project milestones
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