Application of alternative drive systems in modern special-purpose rail vehicles

In response to the market demand for modern special-purpose rail vehicles, an overview of the rolling stock available on the European and world markets was developed, along with an analysis of the scope of works they performed. The need for new alternative forms of propulsion in line with the development directions, taking into account EU and national environmental goals, was discussed. The paper presents a design of a proprietary modern special-purpose vehicle with an alternative drive. It discusses it compared to other special-purpose vehicles regarding their parameters and the viability of different drive systems, including hydrogen fuel cells.