- Siemens will deploy the first hydrogen train fleet in Romania, comprising 12 Mireo Plus H trains.
- Ballard Power Systems ordered 24 fuel cell modules totaling 4.8 MW.
- The project marks the first commercial rollout of the Mireo Plus H platform outside Germany.
- Fuel cell delivery is scheduled for 2027 and 2028, with service expected to begin in 2029.
Siemens Mobility's largest Mireo Plus H hydrogen train deployment has secured its fuel cell supply, with Ballard Power Systems announcing an order for 24 modules totaling 4.8 MW. The order, announced on Oct. 6, covers FCrail fuel cell modules each rated at 200 kW. The modules are slated to power 12 hydrogen passenger trains for Romania's Railway Reform Authority (ARF), forming the country's first hydrogen train fleet.
Delivery of the fuel cell engines is scheduled for 2027 and 2028, with passenger service expected to begin in 2029. The deployment also marks the first commercial rollout of the Mireo Plus H platform outside Germany and the first Mireo train fleet in Eastern Europe.
First commercial rollout to Eastern Europe
According to Ballard, the 12-train project represents the largest commercial deployment of the Mireo Plus H platform to date. The project extends the platform's reach beyond previous hydrogen train deployments in Germany. Siemens Mobility ordered the modules as part of its ongoing collaboration with Ballard, which supplies the fuel cell engines for the hydrogen platform. "With this order, we are bringing our proven and trusted Mireo trains and hydrogen rail transport to Eastern Europe," said Thomas Graetz, head of Regional and Commuter Rail at Siemens Mobility.
He added: "These 12 Mireo Plus H trains will form Romania's first hydrogen train fleet, building on our reliable Mireo platform and the technology's successful deployment in Germany."
Deepening collaboration and technical advantages
The planned Romanian fleet combines the Mireo train platform with Ballard's rail fuel cell technology to deliver passenger service beyond the platform's existing German market. The latest order builds on a multi-year supply commitment established between Ballard and Siemens Mobility in 2022, deepening the partnership as Siemens scales its hydrogen rail fleet. Ballard said the project draws on the performance of earlier Mireo Plus H deployments in Germany, including the use of its fuel cell technology in demanding rail operations.
Ballard CEO Marty Neese said following the announcement of the 24-module order: "We are grateful for our partnership with Siemens Mobility and their passionate commitment to advancing zero-emission rail technology in Europe. Together, we are innovating to deliver clean transportation solutions that lead the industry." He added: "This order represents the largest deployment of the Mireo Plus H fleet, and we are proud to work alongside Siemens Mobility to realize the vision of the future."
According to Ballard, trains powered by its fuel cells offer zero-emission operation, long range, and fast refueling. The company also noted that the trains support flexible operation across different routes and environmental conditions. Ballard describes the technology as a one-to-one replacement for diesel engines on non-electrified lines. These operational characteristics underpin the company's case for fuel cell engines in hydrogen passenger rail. For the Romanian project, the announced timeline spreads fuel cell delivery over two years ahead of the fleet's expected passenger service debut in 2029.
The order secures fuel cell supply for all 12 planned trains.
Impact of hydrogen trains on rail transport
With the introduction of hydrogen trains, Romania takes a significant step in green transportation. This is not only a modernization upgrade for the country's rail system but also an active response to reducing carbon emissions. The partnership between Siemens and Ballard demonstrates a shared vision by both companies in advancing zero-emission technology. The flexible operating characteristics of hydrogen trains make them an ideal replacement for non-electrified lines, further driving the development of sustainable transportation.