San Bernardino is making history with the arrival of the U.S.’s first self-powered, zero-emission passenger train: ZEMU! This cutting-edge train, short for Zero Emission Multiple Unit, is not just a win for transportation but a major leap forward in the fight for cleaner air. With ZEMU set to start carrying passengers soon, let’s take a closer look at how this eco-friendly marvel is changing the game.

ZEMU isn’t just your average train. It’s the first of its kind in North America, designed to meet strict Federal Railroad Administration standards while keeping pollution at zero. Powered by a hybrid of hydrogen and battery technology, the only thing ZEMU leaves behind is water vapor. That’s right—no fumes, no smoke, just a clean, smooth ride!

San Bernardino has struggled with poor air quality, but ZEMU is set to help clear the air. This zero-emission train is the beginning of a cleaner, healthier future for the Inland Empire, offering a breath of fresh air—literally—for the community.

ZEMU will soon be integrated into the Arrow Line, a 9-mile transit route linking downtown San Bernardino with the University of Redlands. The Arrow Line has already seen impressive ridership growth, but ZEMU’s debut is expected to attract even more passengers. The train can carry 108 people and will serve five stops along the route, all while contributing to a greener, quieter transportation experience.

What’s more, the train project wasn’t just about rolling out new tech. The San Bernardino County Transit Authority secured over $60 million in funding for the ZEMU initiative, which includes testing, research, and upgrades to the Arrow Line’s maintenance facilities to support the new fleet.

The best part? ZEMU doesn’t just benefit the environment—it also helps save money. Initially, local authorities considered a costly flood of new infrastructure to support San Bernardino’s growing transit needs. However, investing in ZEMU has proven to be a more cost-effective solution, setting a standard for future rail projects. Plus, the transit authority hopes ZEMU’s success will pave the way for more zero-emission trains across Metrolink’s fleet in the future.

The arrival of ZEMU is part of a larger trend toward cleaner transportation worldwide. While ZEMU currently runs on “blue hydrogen,” the plan is to transition to “green hydrogen,” an even cleaner fuel source. With ZEMU leading the charge, San Bernardino could become a model for other cities looking to make public transit eco-friendly.

ZEMU isn’t just a train; it’s a glimpse into the future of transportation—a future that’s cleaner, smarter, and better for the planet. Whether you’re a regular commuter or just excited about cutting-edge tech, ZEMU’s debut is one worth celebrating.