Battery-powered trains are poised to revolutionize rail travel in Europe following a successful trial of an intercity battery train in northeast England. This innovative ‘tribrid’ train can effortlessly switch between battery, diesel, and electric power. With the phase-out of diesel trains underway, the UK is looking towards cleaner alternatives. The trial took place in the region that first introduced coal-powered engines to the world, as Britain prepares to celebrate 200 years of modern railways next year.
The battery-electric trains utilize a powerful 700kw battery that allows them to reach speeds over 75mph (120kph), making them high-speed options for intercity travel. During the trial, the train operated solely on battery power for 70km before switching back to the diesel engine. This range is sufficient to cover a typical intercity route with bridges, tunnels, and stations. When launched, the trains are expected to have a range between 100 and 150kms. Additionally, the single-battery trains are not only high-performing but also more cost-effective, reducing fuel costs by 35 to 50 percent.
In terms of environmental impact, battery-powered trains are more considerate as they help in achieving cleaner trains as part of the railway industry’s shift towards net zero emissions. By reducing the need for overhead wires on unelectrified tracks, these trains can save Europe billions of euros in electrification projects. Moreover, the trains entering and leaving stations in zero-emission mode significantly reduce noise and air pollution for communities living near railway stations. The success of these trials could lead to greener and more reliable journeys for millions of passengers, according to the UK’s rail minister.
The rapid evolution of battery-electric technology is evident with companies like Hitachi Rail and Siemens Mobility exploring next-generation solutions for railways globally. Hitachi Rail has already introduced the world’s first passenger battery train in Japan and Europe’s first battery ‘tribrid’ train in Italy. Plans are underway to roll out the EuroMasaccio platform across European countries, providing an immediate reduction in CO2 emissions when replacing existing diesel train fleets. Siemens Mobility’s bi-mode battery trains are already in use in Germany’s Ortenau region, saving substantial amounts of diesel fuel annually. These trains require only small sections of track to be electrified, with the company supplying fast-charging points known as Rail Charging Converters along the route.
