Siemens Mobility has completed the first hydrogen train test runs in Bavaria with the aim at introducing into operation from mid-2024 routes between Augsburg and Füssen and Augsburg and Peissenberg on the rail network of Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB).
The tests have been made with the Mireo Plus H hydrogen-powered train and pilot operations of the two-car trainset are planned for 30 months and are supported by the State of Bavaria.
The hydrogen train test runs were carried out under a “full range of everyday conditions. The results of these tests will then determine whether we decide to use hydrogen-powered trains on additional routes in Bavaria,” the Transport Minister of Bavaria, Christian Bernreiter, said.
In March 2021, Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB) awarded Siemens Mobility a contract for the supply of a hydrogen train prototype, as part of an agreement supported by the Bavaria’s Ministries of Transport and Economic Affairs to test and deploy hydrogen trains on the railway network.
The Mireo Plus H is a state-of-the-art hydrogen-powered train based on Siemens Mobility’s proven Mireo regional train platform.
Two roof-mounted fuel cells and a lithium-ion battery ensure completely CO2-free mobility. The H2 energy supply system, combined with the electric drive, provide high 1.7 MW traction power for acceleration of up to 1.1 m/s² and a top speed of 160 km/h. The train has an operating range between 1,000 and 1,200 km with one tank filling.
The Mireo Plus H also features the lowest lifecycle costs compared to other fuel cell trains on the market and can be quickly refueled in just 15 minutes. The Mireo is designed to be energy-saving and environmentally friendly with its monocoque, welded lightweight aluminum structure. In addition, its improved aerodynamics, energy-efficient components, and intelligent electrical system management effectively reduce the use of resources as well as emissions.
Bavaria aims at removing diesel train operation in local and regional transport by 2040 and according to the authorities’ plan, the goal will be achieved by electrifying the railway lines as well as deploying battery and hydrogen trains where electrification is not suitable of feasible.
“With this first hydrogen train, Bavaria is taking another step towards a hydrogen future. By implementing the pilot project together with our partners Siemens and Bayerische Regiobahn, we are making the hydrogen future a tangible experience and at the same time gaining key practical know-how for the broad application of sustainable hydrogen innovations,” Bavaria’s Economics Minister Hubert Aiwanger said.
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