First hydrogen-powered passenger train in US now in service in San Bernardino

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (KABC) -- The first hydrogen-powered passenger train in the U.S. made its big debut in the Inland Empire Saturday and is now officially in service.

Zemu - which stands for Zero Emission Multiple Unit - is the nation's first federally compliant self-powered, zero-emission passenger train and is based in San Bernardino County.

On Saturday, people were able to get a free ride between San Bernardino and Redlands.

So how does it work? It uses a hybrid hydrogen and battery technology to propel the train and power onboard electrical systems. Water vapor is the only emission generated from the propulsion system, making this a clean transit alternative.

"ZEMU is proof of our commitment to improving regional air quality, embracing innovation, and expanding clean-air transit options throughout the county," said San Bernardino County Transportation Authority Board President Rick Denison in a press release. "I look forward to riding ZEMU and am excited for residents and visitors to experience this train firsthand."

The ZEMU train is also pretty easy to spot with its blue and white water-vapor design.

ZEMU was built by Swiss train manufacturer Stadler and arrived in San Bernardino in June 2024.