The new train type is called locally “ZEMU” which stands for “Zero Emission Multiple” unit. Stadler and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) signed the first ever contract to supply a hydrogen-powered train, to run in the United States. SBCTA awarded the contract with an option to order four more vehicles in the future. The train of the FLIRT H2 type is planned for passenger service in 2024.
Funding from California Department of Transportation
The project is one of 28 so-called transformative projects selected to receive funding on from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program, mangled by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in collaboration with the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA). Within this framework, the project is funded with 30 million US-dollars.
The project
A contract signing between Stadler and the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) cleared the way for the first hydrogen-powered passenger train to operate in the United States.
The agreement marks a major milestone in bringing zero-emission passenger rail technology to the U.S. The hydrogen-powered FLIRT H2 vehicle is planned to be introduced in 2024 as part of the Redlands Passenger Rail Project, a nine-mile connector between Redlands and San Bernardino’s Metrolink station.
Under the agreement, Stadler will develop the first hydrogen-powered train. The ordered vehicle consists of two cars with a power pack in between. This holds the fuel cells and the hydrogen tanks. The train is expected to have seating space for 108 passengers and in addition generous standing room. The FLIRT H2 is projected transport passengers with a maximum speed of up to 79 mph (130 km/h).
«Implementing innovative solutions like this first-of-its-kind passenger train is an excellent example of how we are demonstrating our commitment to the next generation in San Bernardino County», SBCTA President Darcy McNaboe said. «The hydrogen FLIRT will help us address the commuting needs of today while preserving our environment for a better tomorrow.»
«Stadler is committed to designing and building green technology for the transportation industry. We are delighted that SBCTA shares our enthusiasm for this goal. We have an excellent relationship with SBCTA, and it is a great honor to partner with them to bring the first hydrogen-powered train to the United States.», said Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US Inc.
Stadler and SBCTA started their partnership in 2017, when SBCTA ordered three diesel electric multiple unit
14.11.2019
Thanks for informative share about that. I am a CA citizen, So, I really want to use Hydrogen train in future.