Hybrid drive systems for commuter and regional trains
Our answers to new challenges
While large sections of the railway network aren't electrified, rail operators are increasingly searching for a replacement for diesel multiple units (DMUs), a trend that will intensify over the coming decades. The reasons are stricter emission regulations (air pollution, noise, and carbon dioxide) and anticipated increases in the price of diesel fuel. Because an increase in renewable power generation is also resulting in fluctuating grid capacities, the focus is shifting to storage-based solutions for power supply.
Consistently better operation – with hydrogen
Hydrogen (H2) is an ideal storage medium for electrical energy because it can easily be carried in tanks and reconverted to electricity (and water) in a hydrogen fuel cell. Siemens offers all the elements in the supply chain for H2 trains from a single source, from wind power plants and electrolyzers that generate hydrogen to depot storage and on-board fuel cell technology.
Fuel cells for long operating ranges
Due to their high power density, Siemens H2 trains typically require one tank stop at the depot per day, especially for ranges over 120 km. Two train lengths are available: two-car units for ranges up to 600 km and three-car units for ranges between 800 and 1,000 km.
Your benefits:
- CO2-free operation when using hydrogen from electrolysis
- Low noise level
- State-of-the-art fuel cells with twice the power density and service life → 34,000 operating hours (over three times as many as the market standard)
- +5 percent efficiency level
- Use of excess electricity in the grid with hydrogen as storage medium
- Sustainable technology from a single source, ranging from wind power plants and electrolyzers (H2) to the vehicle, maintenance/service
Traction batteries for partially electrified sections
All the technological components in our battery-powered trains are installed on the roof or underfloor. Batteries have been proving themselves as an electrical storage system for decades. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, they're ideal for use in battery-powered trains with ranges up to 120 km. Batteries can be charged in stations via overhead cable contacts. The acceleration advantage and greater riding comfort of the electric drive as compared to DMUs is especially noticeable on shorter sections.
Built-in bonus: cost-effectiveness
Thanks to energy savings and reduced lifecycle costs, operation of our battery-powered trains is also extremely cost-effective (up to 45 percent reduction in operating costs). All this is available in an optimized overall solution from a single source, including vehicles, service, financing and, on request, energy procurement, power distribution, and charging stations.
Your benefits:
- CO2-free operation when using power from renewable sources
- Low noise level
- State-of-the-art, extremely long-life lithium-ion technology with twice the service life of conventional systems
- Significantly higher charging capacity – fewer charging stations necessary; rugged, simple design permits the use of larger batteries
