Redlands-San Bernardino Arrow Line Welcomes First U.S. Hydrogen-Powered Train

San Bernardino County is set to make history this Saturday, September 13, with the launch of the nation's first hydrogen-powered passenger train on Metrolink's Arrow line.

 

The Zero-Emission Multiple Unit (ZEMU) will commence its inaugural journey at 10:32 a.m. from the Metrolink Downtown Station in San Bernardino, offering a cleaner commuting option for residents traveling the 9-mile route to the University of Redlands.

 

After approximately ten months of rigorous testing, the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) announced the ZEMU's debut earlier this month.

 

This innovative train utilizes a hybrid system combining hydrogen fuel cells and battery electric technology, emitting only water vapor during operation.

 

Redlands Mayor Mario Saucedo, an SBCTA board member, emphasized the city's commitment to expanding sustainable rail transportation options for Inland Empire residents.

 

He highlighted that the recent approval of an updated climate action plan on July 1 sets new greenhouse gas reduction benchmarks, aligning with state guidelines.

 

“The city’s climate action plan and ZEMU will significantly reduce our carbon footprint, especially as more residents adopt it for daily commutes and weekend trips,” Saucedo stated.

 

Redlands' Sustainability Coordinator, Kaitlyn Haberlin, echoed the mayor's sentiments, noting that transportation is the city's largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

 

“The ZEMU train exemplifies how we can lower emissions through innovative transportation solutions,” she said.

 

Rep. Pete Aguilar, who played a pivotal role in securing federal funding for the project, expressed his enthusiasm: “The ZEMU train will not only enhance our commutes but also improve our air quality.”

 

This launch marks the first of three $23 million trains planned for the Arrow line, signaling a significant shift towards zero-emission railway vehicles since the line's opening in 2022.

 

Arrow trains operate daily between Redlands and San Bernardino, providing seamless connections to Metrolink's San Bernardino line and service to Union Station in Los Angeles.

 

As the ZEMU begins its service, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a cleaner, more sustainable mode of transportation in the region.