Ballard Power Systems has secured an order from Siemens Mobility GmbH for 24 FCrail™ 200 kW fuel cell modules, supporting the expansion of hydrogen trains in Eastern Europe. Siemens Mobility GmbH, a leader in rail automation and electrification, will use the modules to power 12 Mireo Plus H hydrogen passenger trains for Romania’s Railway Reform Authority (ARF).
The order has a combined capacity of 4.8 MW and marks the largest commercial deployment of the Mireo Plus H platform to date. It is also the platform’s first deployment outside of Germany and the first fleet of Mireo trains in Eastern Europe. Deliveries of the fuel cell engines are scheduled for 2027 and 2028, while the trains are expected to begin passenger service in 2029.
Ballard and Siemens Mobility Strengthen Collaboration
The latest agreement builds on the long-standing relationship between Ballard Power Systems and Siemens Mobility, extending a multi-year supply commitment established in 2022. As Siemens Mobility continues to expand its hydrogen rail fleet, the Romanian project draws on the experience gained from earlier Mireo Plus H deployments in Germany.
These operations have demonstrated the application of Ballard’s fuel cell technology in the demanding rail sector, with performance and reliability remaining central to the partnership. The deployment of hydrogen trains in Romania will extend the reach of the Mireo Plus H platform into a new regional market.
“We are grateful for our partnership with Siemens Mobility and their passionate commitment to expanding zero-emission rail technology across Europe. Together, we are innovating and delivering clean transport solutions that are leading the industry. This order is the largest deployment of the Mireo Plus H fleet and we are proud to work side by side with Siemens Mobility to deliver the future – today,” said Marty Neese, CEO of Ballard Power Systems.
Romania to Introduce Its First Hydrogen-Powered Train Fleet
The order will bring hydrogen-powered rail transport to Eastern Europe through the introduction of 12 Mireo Plus H trains in Romania. The fleet will represent the country’s first hydrogen-powered train fleet, using the established Mireo platform and technology already deployed in Germany. Thomas Graetz, Head of Regional and Commuter Rail at Siemens Mobility, highlighted the significance of the project for the company’s regional expansion plans.
“With this order, we will introduce our proven and trusted Mireo trains as well as hydrogen- powered rail transport to Eastern Europe. The 12 Mireo Plus H trains will make up Romania’s first hydrogen-powered train fleet, based on our reliable Mireo platform and the successful deployment of this technology in Germany,” said Thomas Graetz, Head of Regional and Commuter Rail at Siemens Mobility.
Zero-Emission Operations on Non-Electrified Rail Lines
Trains equipped with Ballard fuel cells are designed to deliver safe and reliable zero-emission operations. Their capabilities include long range, fast refueling and flexible operation across a wide variety of routes and environmental conditions. These features enable the trains to serve as a 1:1 replacement for diesel engines on non-electrified rail lines, supporting the deployment of hydrogen trains on routes without rail electrification.
