Stadler and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority have announced that they have signed the first-ever contract to supply a hydrogen-powered train, to run in the United States of America.
SBCTA awarded the contract with an option to order four more vehicles in the future.
The train of the FLIRT H2 type is planned for passenger service in 2024.
The agreement marks a major milestone in bringing zero-emission passenger rail technology to the U.S.
The Flirt H2 train will be introduced as part of the Redlands Passenger Rail Project, a nine-mile connector between Redlands and San Bernardino's Metrolink station.
The ordered train will have two cars with a power pack in between. This holds the fuel cells and the hydrogen tanks.
The train is expected to have seating space for 108 passengers. The FLIRT H2 is projected
transport passengers with a maximum speed of up to 79 mph (130 km/h).
SBCTA President Darcy McNaboe said
Implementing innovative solutions like this first-of-its-kind passenger train is an excellent example of how we are demonstrating our commitment to the next generation in San Bernardino County.
The hydrogen FLIRT will help us address the commuting needs of today while preserving our environment for a better tomorrow.
Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US Inc said:
Stadler is committed to designing and building green technology for the transportation industry. We are delighted that SBCTA shares our enthusiasm for this goal. We have an excellent relationship with SBCTA, and it is a great honor to partner with them to bring the first hydrogen-powered train to the United States.
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I would hope that Donald Trump would like the idea of having Hydrogen powered trains in the USA.