Siemens Mobility has signed a landmark agreement with Romania’s Railway Reform Authority to supply the country’s first fleet of hydrogen-powered trains. The contract includes 12 Mireo Plus H trainsets designed to operate on non-electrified regional lines, marking a major milestone for Eastern European rail modernization. Expected to enter service by 2029, these zero-emission vehicles will significantly reduce CO2 emissions and noise pollution while replacing aging diesel-powered stock. The deal also encompasses a comprehensive 15-year maintenance package to ensure long-term operational reliability across the Romanian rail network.
The project, centered on the Siemens Mireo Plus H platform, represents a strategic shift toward sustainable regional transport in Romania. Each of the 12 hydrogen-powered electric multiple units will consist of two-car articulated trainsets capable of reaching a maximum speed of 120 km/h. Designed with passenger comfort in mind, every unit provides 131 fixed seats and five folding seats. The trains are engineered for flexibility, allowing for multiple traction operations where two coupled units can run together to meet fluctuating passenger demands.
To ensure safety and seamless cross-border interoperability, the new fleet will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) and the PZB intermittent train control system. Passengers will benefit from a state-of-the-art information system featuring high-resolution interior and exterior displays alongside automated announcements. This modernization effort is intended to revitalize passenger services while adhering to strict European safety standards.
A key component of the agreement is a 15-year full-service maintenance and repair contract, which includes the option for a 15-year extension. Maintenance operations will be localized in Romania, with a dedicated depot established in Bucharest. Siemens Mobility will utilize its Railigent X digital suite to manage the fleet, using data-driven insights to optimize vehicle availability and prolong the lifespan of critical components and batteries. This integrated service model covers everything from routine preventive maintenance to major overhauls and material supply.
By introducing hydrogen technology to non-electrified routes, Romania aims to meet its long-term climate objectives and reduce the environmental footprint of its transport sector. The Mireo Plus H offers a viable, carbon-neutral alternative to traditional diesel engines, effectively eliminating CO2 emissions during operation. This initiative places Romania at the forefront of the hydrogen transition in the region, joining a growing number of European nations adopting Siemens’ Mireo platform, which currently includes nearly 600 trains across 24 different fleets.