SNCF and Alstom Present a Battery-Powered Regional Train
This page is translated from the original post "SNCF et Alstom présente un train régional à batterie" in French.
- 27/10/2023 20:55
The SNCF and Alstom have been working on a battery train project since 2021 to reduce CO2 emissions from non-electrified lines.
Retrofitting train sets exists. The idea is always to keep the chassis and body, replacing the original mechanics with a more technologically advanced one. Thus, the SNCF and Alstom have embarked on modifying five diesel-electric hybrid train sets to transform them into 100% electric units.
These train sets, introduced in the early 2000s (almost 20 years ago), will swap their diesel engines for lithium batteries. The CO2 emission reduction is estimated at 85% compared to diesel. However, the range plan is limited to 80 kilometers, so it’s not yet a reason to celebrate.
This highly complex operation – requiring compliance with the specifications of the existing train (weight and volume, modification of old software…) – is a first in Europe. The first train set, intended for the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region, has begun dynamic testing.
The main interest of this solution is to avoid very costly infrastructure investments for line electrification via catenaries. Only a few existing sections will allow the train sets to recharge quickly using their pantographs.
Certifications now need to validate tests up to 160 km/h, then with two coupled train sets. Commercial operation is not expected before December 2024 at the earliest. But the idea is commendable.
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