Stadler and the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) have signed a contract for the first hydrogen-powered passenger train in the United States. The agreement will bring zero-emissions passenger rail technology to the US in 2024.
The nine-mile track will connect Redlands, CA and San Bernardino’s Metrolink station on a former Santa Fe freight railway section. The hydrogen-powered FLIRT H2 vehicle will have a seating capacity for 108 passengers with a maximum speed of up to 79 mph (130 km/h). The train will also offer a generous amount of space for standing passengers.
As part of the agreement, Stadler will develop the first hydrogen-powered train. The vehicle will consist of 2 cars with a power pack in between. The power pack will hold the hydrogen tanks along with the fuel cells. SBCTA has also signed off on an option to order four more vehicles in the future.
SBCTA President Darcy McNaboe released a statement:
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. The hydrogen FLIRT will help us address the commuting needs of today while preserving our environment for a better tomorrow.
CEO of Stadler US Inc, Martin Ritter also commented on the agreement:
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.
The relationship between Stadler and SBCTA began back in 2017. This is a great step forward for the US who is a bit behind when it comes to railway commuter trains compared with other parts of the world. This will offer people a cleaner way to travel and cut down on emissions.
