The first hydrogen-powered, zero-emission passenger train in the US has been unveiled in San Bernardino, California, marking a significant milestone for this innovative project.
Representatives from Mott MacDonald, the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink), the Federal Railroad Administration, the Swiss vehicle manufacturer Stadler, and the US Congress gathered to introduce the zero-emission multiple unit (ZEMU) vehicle at an event.
Joy Buenaflor, Deputy Director of Transit and Rail Programs for SBCTA, expressed her satisfaction with the collaboration: “It has been rewarding to work with the Mott MacDonald team to successfully deliver the first self-powered, zero-emission passenger train that will meet the requirements of the FRA [Federal Railroad Administration]. They were very knowledgeable and committed to the project and had SBCTA and our community’s best interest in the forefront. I would not hesitate to work with Mott MacDonald again on future groundbreaking projects.”
Mott MacDonald played a crucial role in securing funding for the project. They prepared the grant application that won $30 million from the California Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Programme in 2018. This funding was allocated for the research, development, and implementation of a ZEMU vehicle, with the ultimate goal of converting the existing diesel fleet to ZEMU vehicles. In 2023, they prepared a second application for additional funding, bringing the total state funding for the project to $45.8 million.
The team evaluated various zero-emission technologies, including alternative fuels, batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and hybrid options. In July 2019, the SBCTA’s board unanimously approved the implementation of a hydrogen fuel cell and battery hybrid vehicle.
As the prime consultant, Mott MacDonald is currently overseeing the delivery and testing of the Stadler vehicle. They led the final design and permitting for the supporting rail facility infrastructure upgrades and hydrogen fuelling facility, working with federal, state, and local agencies to ensure compliance with regulations. The Arrow service to Redlands began in 2022, initially using diesel vehicles, with ZEMU service set to begin in 2025.
Ray Marquez, Council President of SBCTA, highlighted the project’s impact:
“What we have done with ZEMU is transformational. The development of the train has solidified SBCTA’s place as an innovator in clean passenger rail here in the Inland Empire, throughout the state and the nation.”
Toks Omishakin, Secretary of Transportation for the State of California, emphasised the benefits: “Cleaner air, quieter trains and extra space on board are just a few of the outstanding benefits these hydrogen-powered passenger trains bring to the people of California. We are thankful for this partnership as we work to advance our ambitious climate goals and, with Caltrans, put 10 more zero-emission trains in motion, providing much-needed intercity rail service throughout California.”
Image credit Mott McDonald
