Sustainable Alternative to Diesel Trains Now in Service
Siemens Mobility’s Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains have officially entered passenger service in Bavaria and Berlin-Brandenburg regions as of December 15, 2024. These trains represent a significant advancement in emission-free railway technology, offering a sustainable alternative for non-electrified routes.
Key Features of Mireo Plus H Hydrogen Trains
The Mireo Plus H combines high performance with zero emissions:
- Maximum speed of 160 km/h with acceleration up to 1.1 m/s²
- Operating range up to 1,200 kilometers on a single hydrogen refill
- Powerful 1.7 MW H₂ traction system
- Silicon carbide (SiC) technology for enhanced energy efficiency
- Low lifecycle costs compared to diesel alternatives
- Fast refueling comparable to diesel trains
- Zero local emissions with water vapor as the only by-product
Available in Two Configurations
Siemens offers the Mireo Plus H in two train configurations to meet different operational requirements. The two-car units are designed for routes up to 600 km, providing efficient service for shorter regional connections. For longer distances between 800-1,000 km, Siemens has developed three-car units that maintain the same performance standards while extending operational range. This flexibility allows transport operators to select the most appropriate configuration based on their specific network requirements.
Real-World Implementation and Environmental Impact
Berlin-Brandenburg Region
Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn Betriebsgesellschaft has deployed seven Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains on the Heidekrautbahn line. These trains will save 1.1 million liters of diesel annually and reduce CO₂ emissions by 3,000 tons per year. The implementation utilizes locally produced hydrogen, creating a sustainable regional energy ecosystem. Further efficiency improvements come from regenerative braking energy recovery systems that capture and reuse energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration.
Bavaria Region
The Mireo Plus H, named “Freistaat Bayern,” begins operation with Bayrische Regiobahn (BRB) on December 16, 2024. Initial deployment focuses on the East Allgäu-Lechfeld network, with future expansion planned to the Ammersee-Altmühltal network. This implementation forms a crucial part of Bavaria’s comprehensive plan to eliminate diesel trains entirely by 2040, demonstrating the region’s commitment to sustainable public transportation solutions.
Complementary Battery-Powered Trains
In addition to hydrogen technology, Siemens Mobility is deploying battery-powered trains across various networks. These complementary technologies allow for customized solutions based on specific route requirements and existing infrastructure.
East Brandenburg Network
Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn Betriebsgesellschaft is introducing 31 Mireo Plus B battery trains with phased introduction through summer 2025. These trains offer over 120 kilometers of range on battery power alone, reducing diesel consumption by approximately 4.4 million liters annually. The environmental impact is substantial, with CO₂ emissions reduced by approximately 11,500 tons per year and significant reductions in particulate emissions that affect local air quality.
Passenger Amenities
- 127 passenger seats per train
- Twelve dedicated spaces for bicycles, wheelchairs, and strollers
- Three doors per side for improved accessibility
- Free WiFi service
- Dynamic passenger information system
- Designated family area
- 60+ power sockets and USB charging ports
Additional Siemens Train Deployments
Danube-Isar Network
Deutsche Bahn has ordered a combination of 25 Desiro HC trains and six 4-car Mireo trains for the Danube-Isar network. Some of the Desiro HC trains have already been in operation since August 2024, receiving positive customer feedback. The Mireo trains feature 264 seats each, including dedicated first-class sections for the Airport Express service between Nuremberg and Munich via Regensburg. All trains include accessibility features such as duplex sliding steps and on-board lifts for wheelchair users at low platforms. Enhanced luggage storage capacity addresses practical passenger needs, while high-frequency window glass improves mobile reception throughout the journey.
Regensburg-Danube Valley Network
Rail operator agilis is introducing 21 Mireo trains for RE lines 50 (Nuremberg – Regensburg – Plattling) and 51 (Neumarkt – Regensburg – Plattling). These trains will also serve the Airport Express route between Nuremberg and Munich. The total delivery comprises 23 four-car Mireo trains, offering increased seating capacity compared to previous rolling stock. Modern amenities include comprehensive WiFi coverage and optimized mobile reception through specialized window glass technology, enhancing the passenger experience for both business and leisure travelers.
A Strategic Shift Toward Sustainable Rail Transport
According to Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility: “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. This transition will reduce CO₂ emissions and provide passengers in Germany with climate-friendly, powerful, and comfortable trains.”
The deployment of Mireo Plus H trains marks a significant step toward the decarbonization of regional rail transport, proving that sustainable alternatives can deliver the same or better performance than traditional diesel trains while significantly reducing environmental impact. As more regions adopt these technologies, the cumulative environmental benefits will continue to grow, establishing a new standard for clean, efficient regional transportation across Europe and beyond.
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