Siemens Mobility has begun manufacturing a new fleet of hydrogen-powered trains that will enter service on the Südostbayernbahn network in southeastern Bavaria from late 2026.
This development follows a second order for the company’s Mireo Plus H model and forms part of a wider strategy by the Bavarian state to reduce emissions and modernise regional rail services.
Three two-car Mireo Plus H trains will be delivered under the latest contract to replace the diesel-powered rolling stock currently operating from the network’s hub in Mühldorf. The vehicles will offer quieter operation, eliminating direct CO₂ emissions during service.
Cornelia Würtz, Managing Director of DB RegioNetz Verkehrs GmbH said:Hydrogen trains are an important building block for DB on its path to achieving climate neutrality. By introducing the Mireo Plus H, we are helping drive the climate-friendly rail transport transition at Südostbayernbahn.
The new trains will operate on the 32.3-kilometre non-electrified line between Mühldorf, Tüßling, and Burghausen.
To prepare for the switch to hydrogen, Deutsche Bahn (DB) is developing a dedicated electrolysis plant in Mühldorf. The facility will be powered entirely by renewable electricity.
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility:We are proud to be delivering Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains to Deutsche Bahn and thus enabling emission-free mobility in our home region. Our hydrogen trains feature mature technology, high energy efficiency, strong drive power, long operating range, and low noise levels.
The Mireo Plus H combines a lightweight aluminium frame with energy-efficient components and an onboard network management system. These features aim to reduce overall resource consumption throughout the train’s lifecycle.
Each train will feature nine spaces for bicycles, low-floor access for improved boarding, and window technology designed to allow better mobile phone reception. The trains will also be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) to enhance operational safety and performance.
Beyond the vehicle supply, Siemens Mobility has been awarded a service contract covering the hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. The system includes a roof-mounted hydrogen fuel cell combined with underfloor lithium-ion batteries, creating a fully electric propulsion system without the need for overhead power lines.
The trains will be capable of covering up to 1,200 kilometres per tank, depending on operating conditions, and can be refuelled in around 15 minutes.
