Nation's first hydrogen-fueled train unveiled in West Sacramento

Nation's first hydrogen-fueled train unveiled in West Sacramento

KCRA | Denzen Cortez | Sep 4, 2025

West Sacramento has become home to the nation's first hydrogen-powered zero-emission locomotive, a development that could transform freight movement in California and the country.

"This is huge. This is the first of its type, hydrogen fuel cell. Zero-emission, switcher locomotive," said Ken Beard III, president and CEO of Sierra Northern Railway. "No others exist in the United States."

The locomotive will replace aging diesel switchers statewide, potentially eliminating up to 50,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually, according to industry estimates. Sierra North said this is equivalent to removing nearly 20,000 cars from the road.

"The smoky particulate days with agriculture burning and also the diesel areas, this is a big stride forward where we can grow our economy but also maintain clean air," said Councilmember Eric Guerra.

It's no mystery that diesel and noise pollution have affected habitats nearby. The new hydrogen-powered locomotive means cleaner air and quieter operations in the Sacramento region...more
https://www.kcra.com/article/hydrogen-fueled-train-unveiled-west-sacramento/65986830