California is making big moves in public transportation, from extending the Metro A Line to the ambitious bullet train project that will link Las Vegas with L.A. Now, we can add another milestone: North America’s very first fully zero-emission passenger train.
According to an official press release from San Bernardino County, the hydrogen-powered ZEMU (Zero Emission Multiple Unit) train will operate along the nine-mile Arrow Corridor, connecting key stops in the city of San Bernardino.
The train uses a hybrid hydrogen fuel cell and battery system to power both its movement and onboard electrical systems. Hydrogen is stored in tanks on board and converted into electricity through fuel cells, which then drives the train’s electric motors. This process produces water vapor as the only emission, making it a fully zero-emission transit solution.
In addition to hydrogen fuel cells, the train incorporates batteries to store excess energy and provide additional power during acceleration or when climbing gradients. This combination allows the ZEMU train to operate efficiently on non-electrified tracks while reducing reliance on traditional diesel engines.
The hydrogen-powered train features a striking blue-and-white wrap inspired by water vapor, signaling its eco-friendly propulsion. It also consists of two passenger cars and a central power pack housing the hybrid system, allowing riders to see where the clean energy technology is integrated.