The future potential of battery-electric locomotives crossed another significant milestone this month as the technology undergoes testing in revenue service between Barstow and Stockton, California. Developed by Wabtec in partnership with BNSF, the battery-powered heavy-haul locomotive is designed to operate in a hybrid consist and uses technology similar to regenerative braking in electric vehicles.
The battery-electric locomotive is expected to reduce the environmental impact from emissions while improving fuel economy, with 10 to 15 percent fuel and emissions savings across the whole train. If the initial pilot proves successful, BNSF will look to expand testing to other locations and operating conditions.
Learn more about how the technology works by watching Wabtec’s battery-electric locomotive video.
