Hitachi Rail’s UK intercity battery trial surpasses expectations

Angel Trains, Hitachi Rail, and TransPennine Express have successfully concluded the UK’s first intercity battery trial in the North of England.

The trial is said to have exceeded expectations, achieving fuel cost savings of 35-50% and demonstrating the potential for zero-emission travel.

It utilised a 700kw battery technology, surpassing initial predictions of up to 30% fuel savings.

The battery powered the train to speeds over 75mph (120.7kmph), allowing it to enter, alight, and exit stations in zero-emission battery mode. This helps enhance air quality and lower noise pollution.

The battery matches the weight of a diesel engine and fits in the same undercarriage space, ensuring no risk of track degradation or impact on passenger experience.

Currently, a single battery enables zero-emission travel in and out of non-electrified stations.