The City of San Bernardino Welcomes Zero-Emissions Hydrogen-Powered Train
San Bernardino, a city in southern California, is set to make history with the introduction of the Zemu – a $20m zero-emission multiple unit train. The train, utilizing a hybrid hydrogen fuel cell and battery system, is the first hydrogen-powered, zero-emissions passenger train in North America to meet Federal Railroad Administration requirements. This innovative technology, which will run between Redlands and San Bernardino on the Arrow Corridor, is a major step towards clean energy transportation in the region.
San Bernardino has long struggled with poor air quality, a result of heavy traffic from freeways and industrial facilities. The Zemu project, a decade in the making, aims to provide a clean alternative to diesel trains, reducing pollution and emissions in the area. The introduction of this technology also aligns with California’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.
The lightweight, hydrogen-powered Zemu offers passengers a quieter and smoother ride compared to traditional trains, showcasing the benefits of clean energy technology in transportation. The success of this project has led to further investments in hydrogen-powered trains, with Caltrans commissioning Stadler to build more units for expanded service between Merced and Sacramento.
While hydrogen power poses its own challenges, such as energy density and production efficiency, California is moving forward with investments in a hydrogen infrastructure. With funding from various sources, including the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems, the state is on track to introduce thousands of hydrogen-powered vehicles and build necessary infrastructure to support a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system. The Zemu project is just the beginning of a larger effort to revolutionize rail transit in California and beyond.
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