Since December 15, 2024, Transdev has been testing its first two hydrogen-powered trains in Bavaria, between Augsburg and the Bavarian Alps, for 30 months. This experiment, carried out on the lines of the Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB, a subsidiary of Transdev Germany), is part of a project run by the State of Bavaria to test Siemens' zero-emission technology in place of diesel trains.
This innovative new Mireo Plus H train, developed in Germany by Siemens Mobility, uses the Mireo Plus platform to offer zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell mobility on the regional rail lines between Augsburg, Füssen and Peißenberg. The hydrogen used for this experiment is 100% green, enabling it to emit only water vapor during operation. Technically, the hydrogen fuel cell recharges the traction batteries, which in turn power the train’s electric motor.
The hydrogen train will run on selected daily weekday routes over the 30-month period, replacing the diesel trains usually used by Transdev on these non-electrified lines. This experiment is part of the Bavarian government’s plan to phase out diesel trains by 2040. The aim is to validate hydrogen technology and test it on long journeys (between 1 and 1h30). BRB‘s experimental operation should demonstrate whether hydrogen trains can also be an alternative on railway lines with no prospect of electrification.
The first route to benefit from this new hydrogen-powered train will be the line between Augsburg and Füssen, whose first scheduled passenger run took place on December 16, 2024.
We can not wait to see how the hydrogen train performs with passengers on board. Together with our partners, we will evaluate all the experiences to make this train a success. Electrification of rail lines is not the only alternative to diesel. That's why we're delighted to be testing this hydrogen train as an additional alternative, in order to advance climate protection in regional rail transport.
Arnulf Schuchmann, Managing Director, Bayerische Regiobahn