Advancing sustainable rail in america with the flirt H2

The FLIRT H2, a hydrogen-powered electric experimental train, sets new standards in the rail industry with an incredible unrefueled journey of approx 1742 miles

The FLIRT H2, a creation of the Swiss company Stadler, has recently made history by securing a spot in the Guinness World Records. This remarkable achievement came about as the train covered an astounding distance of approx 1742 miles (2,803 kilometers) without the need for refueling. Featuring an innovative hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system, the electric train showcased the potential of hydrogen technology in the railway transport sector at the InnoTrans 2022 fair in Berlin.

A leap towards sustainable american rail transport

In a significant partnership with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), the FLIRT H2 is set to be integrated into the Redlands Passenger Rail System. This project will extend rail service over approximately 15 kilometers between Redlands and San Bernardino in California. Slated for completion in 2024, it heralds a new era for American rail transport, placing the FLIRT H2 at the heart of this shift towards a greener, more sustainable infrastructure.

The FLIRT H2 stands out with its unique configuration, featuring two passenger carriages flanked by an intermediate “power pack” car. This car houses the hydrogen fuel cells and tanks crucial for converting hydrogen into electricity. This electricity is stored in a traction battery, powering the train’s traction motors whenever needed. The system also enables energy recovery during braking, enhancing the vehicle’s energy efficiency and allowing the FLIRT H2 to operate all day without refueling.

World record achievement

This experiment aimed to test the FLIRT H2 train’s reliability under extreme conditions was closely monitored by a team from the Guinness World Records, who subsequently certified the new record. Ansgar Brockmeyer, EVP of Marketing and Sales at Stadler, expressed immense pride in this achievement, highlighting it as an ideal benchmark for the company’s hydrogen train performance.

The record-setting event took place at the ENSCO test center in Pueblo, Colorado, where the FLIRT H2 traveled a distance of 2,803 km in 46 hours on a single hydrogen fill-up, without any interruptions.

Source: Stadler