San Bernardino County Transportation Authority’s ZEMU—a hydrogen fuel cell-powered FLIRT H2 train from Stadler—will launch Sept. 13, serving riders on Metrolink’s nine-mile, five-station Arrow Corridor between San Bernardino and Redlands in Southern California.
The ZEMU (Zero-Emission Multiple Unit; download fact sheet below) will run alongside two existing low-emission Stadler FLIRT DMUs (diesel multiple units).
SBCTA ordered the ZEMU in 2019, with an option for four more; the train was built in Switzerland, showcased at InnoTrans 2022, and arrived in the U.S. in September 2023. In 2024, it underwent extensive testing at the Transportation Technology Center in Pueblo, Colo. This included achieving a Guinness World Record for the longest single operating distance recorded by a hydrogen fuel cell multiple-unit without refueling: 1,742.025 miles. The ZEMU arrived in San Bernardino in June 2024 (scroll down to watch video). Since then, it has undergone various tests to integrate with Metrolink’s operating system; trainings have occurred with public safety personnel; and safety checks in accordance with Federal Railroad Administration guidelines have been conducted.
“The first FLIRT H2 [ZEMU] for SBCTA consists of two electrically powered end cars and a modular ‘Powerpack’ in the center,” according to Stadler. “This ‘Powerpack’ contains the fuel cells and hydrogen tanks. The fuel cells convert the hydrogen into electricity. This current is passed on to a drive battery. The battery supplies the vehicle’s drives with the power they need. This configuration also allows energy to be recovered during braking. Thanks to this drive solution, the FLIRT H2 can operate all day without refueling. The train provides seats for 108 passengers and has additional standing room. The vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h [approximately 81 mph]. The train is also designed for operation at high ambient temperatures of up to 49 degrees Celsius [120 degrees Fahrenheit].”
SBCTA contracted with Air Liquide Hydrogen Energy U.S., LLC to design, construct, and install the infrastructure that will provide hydrogen storage and a transfer system that will fuel the ZEMU train at the Arrow Maintenance Facility.
The public is invited to ride ZEMU on Saturday, Sept. 13; they can board the train throughout the day at any of the Arrow Corridor stops (download map below). On the first day, zero emission will also mean zero fare as the public can ride ZEMU at no cost, according to SBCTA. A list of the stations and boarding times can be found at Metrolinktrains.com.
“Saturday will mark a historic day for SBCTA,” SBCTA Board President Rick Denison said. “ZEMU is proof of our commitment to improving regional air quality, embracing innovation, and expanding clean-air transit options throughout the county. I look forward to riding ZEMU and am excited for residents and visitors to experience this train firsthand.”
Further Reading:
- SNR Debuts HFC ZE Switcher
- ABB to Provide Traction Tech for New Metra, Caltrans Trainsets
- Ballard Expands HFC Agreement with Caltrans, Stadler US
- ZEMU Testing to Begin Next Month
- SBCTA, Stadler, Metrolink Celebrate ZEMU Tech
- FLIRT H2 Sets a Guinness World Record at TTC
- Hydrogen Finds its Place in California
- HFC Developments Accelerating, Part 3
- HFC Developments Accelerating, Part 2
- HFC Developments Accelerating
- First U.S. Hydrogen Powered Passenger Trainset Testing at TTC
- California Orders Another Six HFC Trainsets
- California Finalizes Order for 29 HFC Trainsets
- California Orders 29 HFC Trains for Intercity Services
