The contract is worth a total RON1.13 billion, VAT not included (EUR229 million). Financing will be covered through the 2021-2027 Transport Program and co-financing from the state budget.
This marks the first hydrogen train contract in Romania and one of the first hydrogen projects in Eastern Europe, the company said.
The deal includes both train delivery and maintenance services for an initial 15-year period, with an option to extend for another 15 years. Passenger service is scheduled to launch in 2029. “We are proud to deliver the first hydrogen train fleet for Romania. With Mireo Plus H, we combine a proven regional platform with hydrogen technology, enabling zero-emission railway operation on non-electrified lines,” said Emil Voinea, CEO of Siemens Mobility Romania.
The Mireo Plus H features a hydrogen fuel cell-based electric propulsion system, complemented by battery energy storage. The batteries are charged either via the fuel cell system or through regenerative braking.
The trains are configured as articulated two-unit trainsets with a maximum operating speed of 120 km/h. Each trainset offers 131 fixed seats plus five folding seats. The trains can be operated in multiple traction of up to two coupled units.
The maintenance activities will be carried out locally in Romania, including at a dedicated depot in Bucharest, by Siemens Mobility personnel, supported by Railigent X digital maintenance and fleet management systems.
By replacing diesel-powered rolling stock, the new hydrogen trains will contribute to a significant reduction of emissions and noise in regional rail transport, the company said.
“With the Mireo Plus H, we combine a proven regional train platform with state‑of‑the‑art hydrogen technology, enabling zero‑emission rail operations on non‑electrified lines,” Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility, explained.