(SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF., Sept. 8, 2025) – The long-awaited passenger service debut of San Bernardino County Transportation Authority’s (SBCTA) hybrid hydrogen fuel cell-battery electric passenger train, known as ZEMU, will begin Metrolink service on Saturday, Sept. 13. The train will depart the Metrolink San Bernardino Downtown Station in the city of San Bernardino at 10:32 a.m. and serve riders on the nine-mile Arrow Corridor of Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line throughout the day.
ZEMU, short for Zero Emission Multiple Unit, is North America’s first self-powered, zero-emission passenger train that meets Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requirements. The train uses a hybrid hydrogen and battery technology to propel the train and power onboard electrical systems. Water vapor is the only emission generated from the propulsion system, making this a clean transit alternative.
“Saturday will mark a historic day for SBCTA,” Board President Rick Denison said. “ZEMU is proof of our commitment to improving regional air quality, embracing innovation, and expanding clean-air transit options throughout the county. I look forward to riding ZEMU and am excited for residents and visitors to experience this train firsthand.”
The public is invited to ride ZEMU on Saturday, Sept. 13, and can board the train throughout the day at any of the five Arrow Corridor stops. And for the first day, zero emission also means zero fare as riders can ride ZEMU at no cost. A list of the stations and boarding times can be found at Metrolinktrains.com.
The ZEMU train is easy to spot with its signature blue and white water-vapor design wrapped around the train’s two passenger cars and center power pack where the hydrogen and battery propulsion system is located.
ZEMU was built by Swiss train manufacturer Stadler and arrived in San Bernardino in June 2024. Since its arrival, the train has undergone extensive testing to ensure compliance with Metrolink systems and guidelines set by the FRA.
In August 2024, the California State Transportation Agency recognized SBCTA for its work to develop and bring online the nation’s first ZEMU passenger train. SBCTA’s efforts have created a framework for other transportation agencies to introduce ZEMU trains into their fleets.