San Bernardino country transportation authority introduces new train to provide clear passenger option
San Bernardino Country Transportation Authority (SBCTA) is claiming to have launched America’s first hydrogen-powered train for passenger transportation. This is part of the county’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2045.
This is the first self-powered, zero-emissions passenger train that meets Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) standards, according to the authority. The train’s movement and internal electronics are powered by hydrogen and battery technology. Only water vapour is emitted from the propulsion system, reducing its carbon impact.
The new Zero Emissions Multiple Unit (ZEMU) has undergone FRA testing for the better part of a year at the transportation technology centre in Pueblo, Colorado. The centre is responsible for testing and training. This both creates a framework for other new technologies to follow whilst also ensuring the train is safe for operation.
SBCTA announced the new ZEMU (Zero Emission Multiple Unit) passenger train while joined by high-ranking politicians from federal and state governments.
Ray Marquez, SBCTA president, said: The development of the train has solidified SBCTA’s place as an innovator in clean passenger rail.”
The train comes from a collaboration between SBCTA and Stadler. Stadler is a Swiss train manufacturer and is responsible for building three diesel multiple-unit trains currently in use. These trains run on renewable fuels made from recycled natural fats and vegetable oils.
ZEMU will come into operation later this year, operating alongside Metrolink’s Arrow Corridor on the San Bernardino Line, with final testing having started in June 2024 to ensure integration with Metrolink’s operating systems.
SBCTA received federal funding from US house representative Pete Aguilar to help build infrastructure enabling the Arrow service along the San Bernardino line.
Amit Bose, FRA administrator, said: “The work being done in California to introduce zero-emission, hybrid hydrogen and battery trains into service is laying the groundwork for transformative passenger rail progress while making rail an even more sustainable mode of transportation.”
California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) provided $52 million in funding towards the research, testing, analysis and development of the new ZEMU train. This contribution made the innovation possible to achieve.
