Ballard to supply 8MW of fuel cell engines to Stadler for Californian Passenger Rail

Ballard Power Systems has announced the signing of a multi-year supply agreement with Stadler US to supply 8 megawatts of FCmove^®-HD+ fuel cell engines to power trains for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The supply of the 100kW modules will be integrated into Stadler’s line of zero-emission passenger trains, the FLIRT H₂.

The order builds on over three years of collaboration, including the successful integration of Ballard fuel cell engines into the FLIRT H₂, which became the first Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) compliant hydrogen fuel cell-powered passenger train demonstrated in the United States.

The order supports Caltrans’ purchase of 10 FLIRT H₂ trains, with an option for an additional 19 trains, to strengthen the state’s zero-emission passenger rail capabilities.

“Stadler is looking forward to working with Ballard and Caltrans to provide leading zero-emission trains to California and support the advancement of their zero-emission goals. The FLIRT H₂ train can replace diesel trains on non-electrified or partially electrified lines for emission-free passenger transport avoiding the investment in costly overhead catenary lines electrification would otherwise require.”

Martin Ritter CEO, Stadler US

The Stadler Flirt H₂ was originally unveiled to the public at the INNOTRANS 2022 industry tradeshow in Berlin, Germany, and has since successfully completed rigorous durability and reliability capabilities testing in Europe and the U.S. 

In March 2024 the zero-emission train set a Guinness world record for the furthest distance recorded by a hydrogen fuel cell passenger train without stopping to refuel - completing a route of 2,803km (1,742 miles) in 46 hours.

"We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with Stadler and support their work with Caltrans to decarbonize commuter rail transportation in California. This order grows our footprint in the rail market and validates the value proposition for Ballard fuel cell engines to power passenger rail in regions lacking catenary wire infrastructure."

Randy MacEwen CEO, Ballard

The Flirt H2 is driven by six Ballard FCmove®-HD+ fuel cell engines, delivering a combined power capacity of 600kW. The train seats 108 passengers, and has a maximum speed of 130 km/h (79 mph).