The trial involved a single battery used to power the train for a mile before it arrived at a station and a mile after departing. The train switched back to its diesel engines after this.
It was expected that fuel cost savings – delivered through train settings, battery usage and driving style -would be around 30%, however they were found to be in the region of 35-50%
The savings peaked at 50% when using ‘Eco-mode’ where the battery entirely powers the trains on route sections.
The train was able to operate solely in battery mode for 70km.
Hitachi is preparing to deliver the next stage of a full intercity battery-electric train that ranges between 100-150km. These ranges cover non-electrified routes removing the need for wires in tunnels or stations.
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.’
