24 FCrail™ fuel cell modules, totalling 4.8 MW, will power 12 Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains for Romania’s Railway Reform Authority (ARF), marking Romania's first hydrogen fleet and the platform's largest deployment to date.
This represents the largest commercial deployment of the Mireo Plus H platform to date, the first outside of Germany, as well as the first fleet of Mireo trains in eastern Europe. Fuel cell engine deliveries are scheduled for 2027 and 2028, with the fleet expected to enter passenger service in 2029.
This order deepens the long-standing collaboration between Ballard and Siemens Mobility, building on a multi-year supply commitment established in 2022. As Siemens Mobility expands its hydrogen rail fleet, this new order leverages the proven success of earlier Mireo Plus H deployments in Germany, reflecting the trusted performance and reliability of Ballard's fuel cell technology in the demanding rail sector.
"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, Ballard Power Systems.
Thomas Graetz, Head of Regional and Commuter Rail, Siemens Mobility, commented: "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."
Trains powered by Ballard fuel cells offer safe and reliable zero-emission operations, including long range, fast refuelling, and flexible operation across a wide variety of routes and environmental conditions, acting as a 1:1 replacement of diesel engines on non-electrified rail lines.