UKs first battery - powered train enters revenue service

 
TIN news:        Network Rail has launched UK's first battery-powered train, a modified Class 379 Electrostar known as an independently powered electric multiple unit (IPEMU), in timetabled service this week.
 
In August 2014, the rail infrastructure operator started trials of this battery-powered train on a test track in Derby, UK.
 
This modified Class 379 Electrostar will service for five weeks between Harwich International and Manningtree stations in Essex based on a weekday timetable.
 
Network Rail principal engineer James Ambrose said: "We've made terrific progress with this project so far and seeing the battery-powered train in timetabled service is a huge step forward.
"We've made terrific progress with this project so far and seeing the battery-powered train in timetabled service is a huge step forward."
 
"After months of engineering and testing, the train is running just as we would like it. We'll be using this five-week period to gather data on how it handles during passenger service - most travellers will recognise how quiet and smooth the ride is compared to a diesel-powered train."
 
Such trains are expected to bridge gaps between electrified parts of the network and parts where overhead electrification is difficult.
 
The project was co-funded by Network Rail and its industry partners Bombardier, Abellio Greater Anglia, FutureRailway and the UK Department for Transport.
 
Battery-powered locomotives were used on railways for around 100 years, including in munitions factories during World War I to avoid the risk of explosion from sparks emitted by steam locomotives, Network rail said.
 
The London Underground currently uses a fleet of battery locomotives on engineering trains for track maintenance and improvement work.