UIC is pleased to invite you to an upcoming webinar on 22 June 2026 from 10:00-11:30, dedicated to a pioneering project to convert the historic ALn 668 railcars from diesel traction to Bio-LNG.
This initiative represents a concrete example of how heritage railways and sustainable innovation can be successfully combined, supporting decarbonisation while preserving historic rolling stock.
Organised by UIC, the webinar will be presented by the Italian State Railways (FS) Treni Turistici Italiani, Hitachi Rail, and Ecomotive Solutions, and will provide a comprehensive overview of the project from its strategic concept to operational deployment.
The session will begin with an introduction by UIC, followed by a presentation of the project’s background and the strategic choices that led to the transformation of the ALn 668. Speakers will then illustrate how the technical conversion from diesel to LNG is conducted, including modifying onboard systems and the rolling stock’s layout, as well as the transforming the engines and control systems to enable gas operation.
The webinar will also compare the performance between diesel and LNG in service, supported by operational data, and will present the logistics solutions for refuelling, including the use of a dedicated mini-tanker system. LNG and Bio-LNG’s characteristics will also be discussed, including their environmental benefits and reduced emissions.
Further contributions will address the certification and authorisation process, the tourist line on and operational context in which the converted railcars are deployed, and the future perspectives for extending this solution to other applications. The session will conclude with a Q&A segment, allowing participants to talk directly with the project partners.
This webinar is addressed to railway undertakings, infrastructure managers, engineers, sustainability experts, and all stakeholders interested in alternative fuels and low-carbon solutions for rail, including applications to existing fleets and heritage vehicles.
Agenda highlights
- Project background and strategic drivers for the ALn 668 diesel-to-Bio-LNG conversion
- Technical transformation of rolling stock, engines, and control systems
- Performance comparison between diesel and LNG/Bio-LNG operation
- Refuelling solutions and logistics, including mini-tanker operations
- Certification and authorisation process
- Operational experience on tourist railway lines
- Environmental benefits and future perspectives for Bio-LNG applications
- Live Q&A with project partners
We look forward to welcoming you to this webinar and sharing insights from this unique intersection of railway heritage, technological innovation, and energy transition.
Registration here.
