- The project volume is around EUR 500 million over 25 years for vehicle procurement, maintenance, and operation.
- The first vehicles in the 27-train fleet will begin running in December on the RB15 line.
- The German federal government is financing 40% of the additional costs, up to EUR 14.7 million.
- Hydrogen has long been produced at Industriepark Höchst as a byproduct of production processes.
Project Overview
The Rhine-Main Transit Association (RMV) presented the first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, set to operate in the Taunus system starting December. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce transportation emissions and achieve climate goals.
Key Figures and Investments
The project involves a total investment of around EUR 500 million over 25 years, covering vehicle procurement, maintenance, and operation. The German federal government is financing 40% of the additional costs, up to EUR 14.7 million, while the State of Hesse is contributing around EUR 2.5 million for rail infrastructure.
Timeline and Schedule
The first vehicles in the 27-train fleet will begin running in December on the RB15 line. The remaining trains will be delivered over the winter and phased into service. The Taunus system includes four lines, some of which are not electrified: RB11, RB12, RB15, and RB16.
Hydrogen Infrastructure
Infraserv Höchst has built hydrogen storage and compression facilities, along with a refueling station and expanded rail tracks at Industriepark Höchst. An electrolyzer for hydrogen production is also part of the project. Hydrogen has long been produced at Industriepark Höchst as a byproduct of production processes.
Operational Details
The lines will be operated by Regionalverkehre Start Deutschland GmbH, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn, which won a Europe-wide tender. Alstom is responsible for the maintenance of these vehicles, ensuring their availability and reliability over their service life. DB Regio will perform the maintenance work at the Deutsche Bahn workshop in Griesheim.
