California’s first hydrogen-powered train brings clean energy to rail travel

The Zero-Emission Multiple Unit, a hydrogen-powered passenger train, will soon operate in Southern California, marking a significant step toward clean energy in U.S. rail travel.

Jules Feeney reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• The Zero-Emission Multiple Unit (Zemu), the first hydrogen-powered passenger train in the U.S., will run in Southern California, reducing emissions in a heavily polluted region.
• The train’s hybrid system uses hydrogen fuel cells and batteries, producing only water vapor as a byproduct.
• California plans further investment in hydrogen-powered transport to meet future carbon-neutrality goals.

Key quote:

“What we have done with Zemu is transformational. The development of the train has solidified SBCTA’s place as an innovator in clean passenger rail here in the Inland Empire, throughout the state and the nation.”

— Ray Marquez, president of the San Bernardino County Transit Authority

Why this matters:

Hydrogen-powered trains offer a promising alternative to diesel, reducing air pollution in communities near rail corridors. Expanding this technology could significantly lower transportation-related emissions nationwide.

Related: California faces challenges with hydrogen energy plan