Siemens Hydrogen Trains Enter Passenger Service in Germany
Hydrogen-Powered Trains Set to Revolutionize Bavarian and Berlin Commutes
Siemens Mobility‘s Mireo Plus H trains are poised to make their debut in passenger service this month, marking a meaningful step towards lasting transportation in Germany.
starting December 16, Bavarian Regional Rail (BRB) will introduce a Mireo Plus H train on the East Allgäu – Lechfeld network, gradually expanding operations to the Ammersee – Altmühltal network. This 30-month pilot program, funded by the Bavarian state government, will showcase the train’s capabilities and pave the way for wider adoption.
Meanwhile, in berlin-Brandenburg, the Niederbarnimer railway (NEB) will deploy seven Mireo Plus H trains on the Heidekrautbahn line. One of these trains made a successful exhibition run during InnoTrans 2024 in September, generating excitement for its upcoming passenger service.
NEB is also investing in the battery-electric version of the Mireo plus H, the Mireo Plus B. A fleet of 31 Mireo Plus B trains is expected to enter service on the East Brandenburg network by summer 2025.
Siemens mobility CEO of Rolling Stock,Andre Rodenbeck,expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “We have completed the development of our innovative and environmentally-friendly Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains right on schedule. We are delighted to be a driving force behind the phasing out of diesel trains.”
The introduction of these hydrogen-powered trains is expected to substantially reduce diesel fuel consumption, with Siemens estimating a reduction of approximately 4.4 million liters per year. This move towards sustainable transportation aligns with Germany’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting greener mobility solutions.
Hydrogen Takes the Tracks: A Revolution in german Commutes
NewsDirectory3.com Exclusive Interview
With the debut of Siemens Mobility’s Mireo Plus H trains this month, bavarian and Berlin commuters are on the cusp of experiencing a greener, more sustainable mode of transport. We spoke with Andre Rodenbeck,CEO of Rolling Stock at Siemens mobility,to understand the impact of this groundbreaking technology.
NewsDirectory3.com: Mr.Rodenbeck, Siemens Mobility has been at the forefront of developing hydrogen-powered trains. Can you tell us about the Mireo Plus H and its importance for Germany’s transportation sector?
Andre Rodenbeck: The Mireo Plus H represents a meaningful milestone in our journey towards sustainable transportation. By replacing diesel-powered trains with hydrogen fuel cells, we can dramatically reduce carbon emissions and contribute to Germany’s climate goals. We are proud to be leading this technological advancement and paving the way for a greener future.
NewsDirectory3.com: The Mireo Plus H is set to be deployed on various routes in Bavaria and Berlin. What are the timelines for these deployments?
Andre Rodenbeck: We are thrilled to announce that Bavarian Regional Rail will introduce the Mireo Plus H on the East Allgäu – Lechfeld network starting December 16th, with a planned expansion to the Ammersee – Altmühltal network.in Berlin-Brandenburg, the Niederbarnimer railway will deploy seven Mireo Plus H trains on the Heidekrautbahn line.
NewsDirectory3.com: What impact do you foresee these hydrogen-powered trains having on Germany’s habitat and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions?
Andre Rodenbeck: The Mireo Plus H has the potential to considerably reduce diesel fuel consumption. Based on our estimates, we expect a reduction of approximately 4.4 million liters of diesel fuel per year. This is a major step towards a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system.
NewsDirectory3.com: Siemens Mobility is also investing in battery-electric versions of the Mireo. Can you tell us more about these developments?
Andre Rodenbeck: We believe in offering a diverse portfolio of sustainable solutions. The Mireo Plus B, a battery-electric version, is also being deployed by the Niederbarnimer railway. This highlights our commitment to providing flexible and environmentally friendly options for various railway networks.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you for your insights, mr. Rodenbeck. The introduction of the Mireo Plus H marks a promising era for sustainable transportation in Germany.