India Rolls Out Dual-Fuel LNG Train as Alternative to Conventional Diesel
Indian Railways has introduced its first LNG-diesel dual-fuel DEMU train, joining the hydrogen-powered train that debuted earlier this year. The new train uses a dual-fuel system, allowing it to switch between liquefied natural gas (LNG) and diesel depending on operational requirements and fuel availability.
The dual-fuel technology is expected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, including CO2, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. According to project estimates, one Driving Power Car can cover around 444 km on a full LNG load, with an LNG tank capacity of approximately 2,200 litres holding 950-1,000 kg of usable LNG.
The dual-fuel system is designed to maintain the required power and operational reliability while using LNG alongside diesel. The project aims to reduce fuel costs and dependence on conventional diesel in railway operations.