by Jeff Smith
Testing of Hydrogen Cell ZEMU at the DOT Transportation Technology Center (TTC) in Pueblo, Colo Railway Age
First U.S. Hydrogen Powered Passenger Trainset Testing at TTC
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Stadler ZEMU
Hydrogen-powered trains have been in service in Germany since 2018 and have completed trials in several other European countries. In 2019, Stadler US Inc. (a U.S. subsidiary of Swiss train manufacturer Stadler Rail) was awarded a contract from San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) to deliver the first-in-the-U.S. hydrogen-powered trainset with an option to order four more in the future. The train is called the ZEMU, for “Zero Emission Multiple Unit.”
The ZEMU uses a combination of hydrogen fuel cells and batteries for propulsion. Electrical power is created by combining hydrogen with oxygen in on-board fuel cells. The reaction between hydrogen and oxygen produces purified water and heat. When the ZEMU operates, it emits only water vapor, meaning cleaner air and less global warming. When the hydrogen itself is produced by green methods, the total system can achieve zero carbon emissions.
The ZEMU consists of two cars with a power module in between that holds the hydrogen tanks and fuel cells that generate electricity for the traction motors. The trainset has seating space for 108 passengers in addition to generous standing room, and can transport passengers with a maximum speed of up to 79 mph. It is expected to start operation as part of the Arrow service between San Bernardino and Redlands, Calif. in 2024.
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Next stop, Willoughby
~el Jefe :: RAILROAD.NET Site Administrator/Co-Owner; Carman at Naugatuck Railroad
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~el Jefe :: RAILROAD.NET Site Administrator/Co-Owner; Carman at Naugatuck Railroad
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