Siemens Mobility builds seven state-of-the-art hydrogen trains

Source: Energy & Management Powernews, June 28, 2022

Siemens Mobility is building seven two-car "Mireo-Plus-H" trains for the Heidekrautbahn (RB27) network in the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region.

The order for the trains with fuel cell drive and lithium-ion battery has placed the Berlin railroad infrastructure company Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn AG (NEB). By switching from diesel-powered trains to hydrogen trains, the Heidekrautbahn's CO2 emissions can be reduced by 3 million kilograms annually. 1.1 million tons of diesel will be saved. The vehicles are scheduled to be in service on the railroad from December 2024. This is announced by Siemens Mobility and NEB in a joint announcement on June 27.

According to the manufacturer, the "Mireo Plus H" is a state-of-the-art second-generation hydrogen train. As a two-seater, it has a range of up to 800 kilometers. This makes it as powerful as electric multiple units. Its top speed is 160 km/h. The regional train's propulsion system is equipped with a hydrogen drive system consisting of a fuel cell and a lithium-ion battery. The reaction of hydrogen and oxygen produces electrical energy and, as a "waste product," water.

Quick refueling in 15 minutes possible

According to Siemens Energy, the train has the "lowest life cycle costs on the market" and features a quick refueling function in 15 minutes. It goes on to say that the self-supporting, welded lightweight aluminum integral structure, improved aerodynamics and intelligent on-board power system management all contribute to the reduction of resources and emissions.

The order placed with Siemens Mobility also includes a service and spare parts supply contract for ten years until 2034, in which Siemens Mobility is to ensure the availability of the trains over the entire term of the transport contract. Part of this service contract is not only the securing of all necessary maintenance, servicing and repair activities, but also their continuous further development, adapted to the customer-specific use of the vehicles on the Heidekrautbahn.

The use of the hydrogen vehicles on the Heidekrautbahn is part of a scientifically accompanied pilot joint project funded by the German federal government and the states of Berlin and Brandenburg for the development of a regional, sustainable hydrogen infrastructure, which also includes a hybrid power plant and a refueling facility. All train operations on the RB27 are to run exclusively on green and regionally generated energy.

A first Prototypes of the "Mireo Plus H" had already been presented by Siemens Mobility in May of this year with Deutsche Bahn.

Author: Davina Spohn