INOX India Limited (INOXCVA) supplied 2,200 litre LNG receiving, storage and regasification systems to integrate with 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPUs) of Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains, enabling the first LNG–diesel dual-fuel DEMU trial at Sabarmati, Ahmedabad. Indian Railways (IR) operationalised the trial as a milestone for alternative fuels on short and medium distance routes. The systems allow switching between LNG and diesel for dual-fuel operation.

The technology enables substitution of up to 40 per cent of diesel with liquefied natural gas, reducing diesel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The deployment aims to enhance fuel efficiency on routes where DEMU trains operate and meet integration and safety requirements for on-board cryogenic storage and regasification.

The project was conceived by the erstwhile Alternative Fuels Division of Indian Railways to convert an initial batch of 10 DPUs to the hybrid model. INOXCVA previously delivered two units that underwent trials and certification at the Sabarmati Division, after which IR prepared to induct additional units under the existing contract. CLH Gaseous Fuel Applications Pvt. Ltd. carried out the engine conversions from standalone diesel to dual-fuel.

INOXCVA is the only provider in India to have delivered, tested and validated cryogenic LNG systems for rail applications and has indicated readiness to supply further units. With plans to double on-board LNG capacity, the trains are expected to travel longer distances than current shorter hauls and support wider deployment. The company operates in India, Brazil and Europe and serves users in more than 100 countries with after-sales support in 25 countries.

Company leaders described LNG as a transition fuel and identified liquid hydrogen as the next frontier for zero-emission rail while noting that sustained R and D and cryogenic expertise underpin future developments. The Sabarmati trial is presented as a step towards decarbonising rail mobility and reinforcing long-term energy security; further deliveries will determine the pace of rollout across the network.