North America's first hydrogen-powered train project, known as ZEMU (Zero Emission Multiple Units), is set to launch on a nine-mile route between San Bernardino and Redlands in early 2025. The initiative, championed by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, aims to offer an eco-friendly transportation option with zero emissions, solely emitting water vapor during operation. ZEMU operates on hydrogen gas, which reacts with oxygen in a fuel cell to produce electricity stored in a battery to power the train. The train design includes two passenger compartments and runs quietly with a crew of two, a conductor, and an engineer onboard. The hydrogen used for ZEMU is categorized as 'blue' hydrogen initially, with plans to transition to 'green' hydrogen in the future. 'Green' hydrogen is produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources like wind or solar power, enhancing the sustainability of the project. Regarding safety, hydrogen storage and handling have been deemed safe by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, emphasizing the feasibility and reliability of using hydrogen as fuel. The project draws inspiration from successful ventures like Toyota's Mirai hydrogen fuel cell car, which has had no issues with hydrogen depots or automobiles since its introduction in 2015. California's ZEMU project signals a significant investment of around $60 million, mainly funded by the state and supplemented by local contributions. The initiative aims to set a new standard for eco-friendly public transportation in the region, with plans to expand the use of hydrogen-powered trains within the Metrolink network. While Germany has been ahead in implementing hydrogen trains since 2018, California's endeavor marks a pioneering effort in North America towards sustainable transportation solutions.