Angel Trains, Hitachi Rail, and TransPennine Express have announced the success of the UK’s first intercity battery train trial in the North of England.
This trial demonstrated that a single 700kW battery can reduce fuel costs by up to 50% while enabling zero-emission travel in and out of stations, significantly cutting noise and pollution.
During the trial, the battery-powered train achieved all performance requirements, reaching speeds over 75 mph and aligning with timetable standards.
What’s more, the battery installation matches the weight and size of a diesel engine, ensuring no impact on passenger space or track integrity.
Key findings from the trial include:
- Fuel Savings: The battery reduces fuel costs by 35%-50%, surpassing the initial 30% projection.
- Zero-Emission Station Entry: The battery enables quieter, emission-free travel for up to 70 km, covering sections around stations, bridges, and tunnels.
Hitachi Rail’s Chief Director of UK & Ireland, Jim Brewin said:Everyone should be immensely proud of creating battery technology that had zero failures during the entire trial. Using our global expertise, Hitachi Rail has created new technology which means the greenest mode of transport, just got greener.
This technology could reduce the need for extensive electrification, offering a low-cost, emission-free rail solution.
In fact, based on real-world data, the trial suggests that future intercity battery-electric trains could have a range of 100-150 km, making it viable to eliminate diesel on many non-electrified rail routes.
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said:Rail is already the most environmentally friendly form of public transport, and the success of this trial will pave the way for even greener, more reliable journeys for millions of passengers.
This technology will play a vital role as we deliver our ambitious plans to transform and decarbonise the railways, and it could open the door to a more affordable expansion of the network for communities across the country.
