Germany rolls out hydrogen train line changes and ETCS upgrades for regional fleets

From 21 June 2024 hydrogen-powered trains in the Taunus region will operate only on the RB15 line (Bad Homburg‑Brandoberndorf) while diesel‑powered replacement units are deployed to repair a series of hydrogen train failures. The Rhein‑Main‑Verkehrsverbund (RMV) said the temporary change will last until the overhaul of the 27‑vehicle hydrogen fleet is completed later this year.

Separately, Alpha Trains will retrofit 35 Stadler FLIRT3 electric multiple units used by the Bayerische Regiobahn on the Rosenheim Cross (ROX) network with the European Train Control System (ETCS). The upgrade, which includes a redesign and a second heavy revision, aims to make the fleet ready for cross‑border operation from 2029 onward. Siemens Mobility will supply the ETCS components, with project management by Talbot Services and engineering by InterEngineer Systems.