Siemens Mobility has announced the introduction of its Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains into passenger service. Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility, stated, "We offer electric, battery, and hydrogen trains based on the ultra-modern Mireo platform and have completed the development of our innovative and environmentally friendly Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains right on schedule." He expressed enthusiasm for being a driving force behind replacing diesel trains with these new models.
Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn Betriebsgesellschaft will operate seven Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains on Berlin-Brandenburg's Heidekrautbahn line. These trains are expected to save 1.1 million liters of diesel fuel annually and reduce CO2 emissions by 3,000 tons. Locally produced hydrogen will power the trains' fuel cells, emitting only water vapor as a by-product. The energy efficiency is further enhanced by using recovered braking energy.
The Mireo Plus H train named “Freistaat Bayern” will replace diesel trains at Bayrische Regiobahn (BRB) starting December 16, 2024. Test operations will begin in stages in the East Allgäu-Lechfeld network before expanding to the Ammersee-Altmühltal network. The goal is to phase out diesel propulsion in Bavaria’s regional rail system by 2040.
These new hydrogen-powered trains boast an operating range of up to 1,200 kilometers and can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h with their H2 traction system providing high drive power. The initiative reflects openness to innovative rail technology aimed at emission-free passenger transportation.
In Brandenburg, Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn Betriebsgesellschaft is introducing a fleet of Mireo Plus B battery trains in its East Brandenburg network. By summer 2025, all 31 battery trains are expected to be operational. This move aims to cut down diesel consumption by about 4.4 million liters per year while eliminating local CO2 emissions and reducing broader regional emissions depending on the electricity mix.
These battery-electric trains come equipped with features such as three doors per side for easy access from lower platforms and provide amenities like free WiFi service and multiple charging ports for passengers' convenience.
Additionally, Deutsche Bahn has ordered Desiro HC and Mireo trains for various networks including Danube-Isar and Regensburg-Danube Valley networks since December 2020. Some Desiro HC units have been operational since August 2024 with positive customer feedback highlighting satisfaction due to features like multi-purpose open areas and improved mobile reception capabilities through high-frequency window glass.
With these developments across different regions in Germany, Siemens Mobility continues its push towards more sustainable rail transport solutions.