California Expands Green Transportation with Additional Hydrogen Trains from Stadler

California enhances its rail transportation system with an order for six additional hydrogen-powered trains from Stadler, expanding the fleet to ten and advancing the state's decarbonization efforts.

The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) and Caltrans have announced an expansion of their commitment to sustainable rail transport by ordering six additional hydrogen-powered trains from Stadler. This decision follows the initial contract from October 2023, which included four hydrogen trains, bringing the total to ten vehicles aimed at decarbonizing California's rail services.

Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US, expressed pride in the partnership, emphasizing the role of the hydrogen trains in driving the decarbonization of rail transportation in the United States. He appreciated the trust CalSTA and Caltrans have placed in Stadler and looked forward to a deepening collaboration.

Stadler's hydrogen trains have undergone rigorous testing in Switzerland and the US, with the SBCTA FLIRT H2 model currently excelling in pre-revenue testing. The agreement between Stadler, CalSTA, and Caltrans includes options for up to 25 trains, indicating potential for further expansion of the hydrogen-powered fleet.

Ansgar Brockmeyer, EVP of Marketing and Sales at Stadler, highlighted the significance of the FLIRT H2 in the American market, where rail electrification is limited. He pointed out that hydrogen technology offers a sustainable alternative to conventional propulsion methods, aligning with Stadler's mission to modernize public transport in North America and contribute to environmental protection.

The investment in hydrogen trains underscores California's leadership in adopting green technologies for public transportation, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly rail system.