Siemens Mobility has received an order from Niederbarnimer Railway (NEB) for seven two-car Mireo Plus H trains for the Heidekrautbahn network (RB27). They won’t emit any CO2 and will have a fuel cell propulsion system and lithium-ion battery.
A second-generation hydrogen-powered train with 1.7MW of traction power and a top speed of 160 km/h, the Mireo Plus H can accelerate to 1.1 m/s2. With a self-supporting, welded and integrated lightweight aluminum structure, according to Siemens, the train has the lowest lifespan costs on the market and can be refueled in 15 minutes.
The roomy interiors of the two-car trains include free Wi-Fi, real-time passenger information screens, a designated family section, and two multi-purpose spaces with room for strollers, wheelchairs, and up to 12 bicycles. Even at stops with lower platforms, passengers in wheelchairs or buggies may easily enter or exit the train thanks to the powered cars’ three doors on each side.
Service and spare parts are covered under the contract for a 10-year period, till 2034. This includes all required upkeep, servicing, and repairs in addition to the fleet’s ongoing development and adaptability.
A cooperative pilot project supported by the federal government and the governments of Berlin and Brandenburg includes the deployment of hydrogen-powered trains on the Heidekrautbahn. The goal of the project is to create a regional, sustainable hydrogen infrastructure that comprises a tank system, a hybrid power plant, and other components.
In February, NEB and the governments of Berlin and Brandenburg came to an agreement for the introduction of hydrogen fuel cell trains in the Berlin-Brandenburg area. With the reopening of the Berlin-Wilhelmsruh-Basdorf line to passenger service in 2024, the agreement allowed the parties to begin making preparations for hydrogen trains operating on the route.
