Siemens Mobility Introduces Hydrogen Trains in Germany for Cleaner and Efficient Transportation
Key Ideas
- Siemens Mobility announced the introduction of hydrogen trains in Berlin-Brandenburg and Bavaria, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and providing a climate-friendly travel option.
- The Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains will operate on specific routes, saving significant amounts of diesel fuel and reducing CO2 emissions in the regions.
- These hydrogen trains are powered by locally produced hydrogen, emit only water vapor as a by-product, and employ recovered braking energy to enhance energy efficiency.
- The innovative Mireo Plus H offers eco-friendly, quiet, and efficient transportation, with plans to fully phase out diesel trains in Bavaria's regional rail system by 2040.
Siemens Mobility recently announced a significant step towards cleaner and more efficient transportation in Germany with the introduction of hydrogen trains in the Berlin-Brandenburg and Bavarian regions. The first Mireo Plus H trains have received authorization for passenger operation and are set to inaugurate passenger service by December 15, 2024. These trains mark a vital shift towards reducing CO2 emissions and providing passengers with eco-friendly and comfortable travel options.
The Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains will be operated by Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn Betriebsgesellschaft in Berlin-Brandenburg, saving 1.1 million liters of diesel fuel annually and cutting CO2 emissions by 3,000 tons. By utilizing locally produced hydrogen in the fuel cells, the trains will emit only water vapor as a by-product, contributing to a cleaner environment. Moreover, the incorporation of recovered braking energy will further enhance the trains' energy efficiency.
In Bavaria, the Mireo Plus H, named “Freistaat Bayern,” will replace diesel trains at Bayrische Regiobahn (BRB) for a period of two and a half years starting December 16, 2024. These hydrogen trains will operate test runs initially in the East Allgäu-Lechfeld network and subsequently expand to the Ammersee-Altmühltal network. With an operating range of up to 1,200 kilometers and a top speed of 160 km/h, the Mireo Plus H offers a sustainable alternative to diesel propulsion, aligning with the goal of phasing out diesel trains in the region by 2040.
Siemens Mobility emphasizes that the Mireo Plus H sets new standards in emission-free passenger transportation, providing passengers with a climate-friendly and comfortable travel experience. The introduction of these hydrogen trains signifies a significant step towards a more sustainable and innovative future in railway transportation.