Battery-Powered Hitachi Passenger Train Exceeded Expectations

The week of November 11, 2024, Hitachi Rail UK hosted an event with its partners Angel Trains and TransPennine Express celebrating the completion of the UK’s first intercity battery-powered train trial. The trial was a success, and the Hitachi passenger train exceeded expectations.

Just one battery powered the train to speeds greater than 75 miles per hour, demonstrating that this technology can enter, alight and exit stations solely in zero-emission battery-mode to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution. In addition, the battery matches the weight of a diesel engine and is installed in the same undercarriage space, ensuring no risk of track degradation and no impact on the passenger environment. The battery included in this achievement was designed, engineered, and manufactured by Turntide Technologies.

Hitachi Speakers

Speakers included CEO, Giuseppe Marino and Executive Director, Vehicles CTO Koji Agatsuma, who expounded on the achievements of the Hitachi team and the train. They also discussed how the Hitachi passenger train exceeded expectations. The train demonstrates that Hitachi Rail is ready to deliver the next stage of an intercity full-battery-electric train.

Media Coverage

The successful trial was also featured in BBC News article, which stated, “Battery-powered trains would save rail operators the cost of installing overhead wires on unelectrified tracks, which are found throughout the UK.” It also decreases or eliminates diesel fuel costs and emissions.

According to an Interesting Engineer article, “Notably, this battery weighs as much as a conventional diesel engine, allowing it to fit seamlessly into the train’s undercarriage. This placement preserves the train’s structural balance and ensures a smooth experience for passengers without increasing track wear.”

In addition, this article states that Hitachi’s 700-kW-battery train cuts fuel costs by up to 50% and offers an emissions-free journey.