Hydrogen train hits record distance

Stadler is excited to share that our FLIRT H2 hydrogen-powered train has set a new Guinness World Records title for the longest journey by a hydrogen fuel cell electric passenger train on a single tank of fuel.

Covering 1,741.7 miles (2,803 kilometers) without needing to refuel or recharge, this milestone highlights our commitment to innovation and our leadership in sustainable rail transport.

The FLIRT H2 was introduced to the public at InnoTrans 2022 in Berlin, showcasing the integration of fuel cells and hydrogen storage into our popular FLIRT commuter train line. These technologies have been rigorously tested, culminating in this record-setting journey watched by the Guinness World Records team.

Dr. Ansgar Brockmeyer, EVP of Marketing and Sales at Stadler, expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing the FLIRT H2's role in demonstrating the potential of hydrogen in rail transport. Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US Inc., highlighted Stadler's dedication to advancing rail transportation through alternative drive systems and contributing to a cleaner, emission-free future.

The record attempt began on the evening of March 20, 2024, at the ENSCO test center in Pueblo, Colorado, with a team of engineers driving in shifts. By 5:23 p.m. MST on March 22, 2024, the train had traveled over 46 hours on a single tank, establishing a new world record.

This achievement adds to Stadler’s track record of innovation in alternative propulsion trains, including the battery-powered FLIRT Akku, which set a record in 2021 for the longest battery-only journey.

The FLIRT H2, designed for the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, is part of Stadler’s ongoing efforts to produce environmentally friendly rail solutions, including the world’s first narrow-gauge hydrogen trains. With increasing global interest in sustainable public transport, Stadler continues to lead in the development of hydrogen and battery-powered trains, with significant orders in the US and Europe.

The FLIRT H2 is designed to operate emission-free, even on routes without overhead electric lines, showcasing Stadler’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in rail transport.