Our Work New
SBCTA spearheaded an initiative aimed at creating a greener passenger rail service by piloting zero-emission rail technology for the new Arrow service between San Bernardino and Redlands. A contract signed in 2019 between Stadler US and SBCTA established the groundwork for the manufacturing of the first two-car hydrogen-powered passenger train in the United States. This development marked a significant step in SBCTA’s commitment to a sustainable future for the county, providing zero-emission transportation options and reducing reliance on fossil fuels to protect the health of its 2.1 million residents and visitors.
On June 20, 2024, North America’s first federally compliant self-powered, zero-emission passenger train arrived in San Bernardino County. The train’s arrival at the San Bernardino Depot Train Station represented a major milestone in bringing this concept to life. Known as the Zero-Emission Multiple Unit (ZEMU), the passenger train is powered by a combination of hydrogen and battery technology, which both propels the train and powers its onboard electrical systems. The propulsion system emits only water vapor, making it a clean alternative for public transit. The ZEMU features a distinctive blue and white water-vapor design that wraps around its two passenger cars and the central power pack, which houses the hydrogen and battery propulsion system.
On September 13, 2025, history was made as San Bernardino County welcomed the ZEMU into regular service. The groundbreaking inaugural trip departed from the Metrolink San Bernardino Downtown Station at 10:32 a.m. on a Saturday, heading eastbound. The ZEMU currently operates full commuter service according to the Arrow schedule on the Metrolink San Bernardino Line.
The story of ZEMU is unique. Read about the history of rail in San Bernardino County, SBCTA’s commitment to cleaner passenger rail, and ZEMU’s journey from research and development to testing and arrival in San Bernardino. Click here for the story map.
Click here to read our latest press release about ZEMU.
Project Webinar
SBCTA hosted a webinar on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 to provide information about the Zero-Emission Multiple Unit and Arrow Maintenance Facility.
To watch the webinar, click the image below.
Fact Sheets
Recommended Resources
County of San Bernardino – Community Indicators Report (2019)
The purpose of this report is to measure the County’s performance and detect trends so that the community can assess and refine its efforts toward achieving the Vision.
Community Indicators Report (2019)