Press release -
Hitachi Rail unveils long-distance version of Europe’s first battery train
Groundbreaking hybrid battery train evolves to serve the intercity market in Southern Italy
- New intercity hybrid battery train will enter service in Southern Italy this summer
- Hitachi Rail will deliver seven intercity hybrid battery trains for Trenitalia as part of a wider €1.23bn framework agreement
- Hybrid train uses battery, electric and diesel power to cut CO2 emissions by 83%
Hitachi Rail has unveiled its first long-distance hybrid battery train which will help to cut carbon emissions by 83% when it enters service later this year.
At an event in Reggio Calabria, Trenitalia presented its new hybrid intercity battery train, the first of seven due to be manufactured this year. The trains will run on routes between Calabria, Basilicata and Puglia, and are part of a wider €1.23bn framework agreement for hybrid battery trains with Trenitalia. The intercity train is an evolution of Hitachi Rail’s Masaccio fleet, which first entered service in serving urban and commuter routes across Italy in December 2022.
The intercity battery train uses innovative hybrid technology allowing it to seamlessly draw from battery, electric, hybrid and diesel power. The hybrid driving mode, allows energy recovery during deceleration and braking, and can reduce carbon emissions by up to 83% compared to current diesel-powered trains.
The new intercity trains, which are characterised by their own livery and interiors, combine cutting-edge technology with the comfort and travel experience of intercity trains. The fleet is equipped with an innovative air conditioning system which optimises consumption based on the number of passengers on board enhanced bike stations and substantial luggage transport capacity. The intercity battery train can reach a top speed of 160 km/h with an acceleration of 1.10 m/sec2.
"Our hybrid intercity battery train is a sustainable, innovative train with cutting-edge performance”, says Luca D'Aquila, COO of the Hitachi Rail Group and CEO Hitachi Rail Italy. “Our train is designed to make journeys even safer, more comfortable and greener, supporting Trenitalia in its goal of equipping the country with a fleet of modern trains for the benefit of passengers and the environment."
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About Hitachi Rail:
Hitachi Rail is connecting the future of mobility - helping every passenger, customer and community enjoy the benefits of more seamless, sustainable transport.
With innovative technology and world-leading delivery capabilities, Hitachi Rail is a trusted partner to customers and consortia partners globally. The company is an expert in every part of the railway: from train manufacturing and maintenance to digital signalling and smart mobility. Its pioneering products, such as the iconic high speed bullet train, enable billions of passenger journeys and the transport of millions of tonnes of freight, every year.
Drawing on the powerful expertise of the wider Hitachi group companies, Hitachi Rail is uniquely placed to further enhance its offer to customers through pioneering new digital solutions and services.
In FY22, Hitachi Rail had revenues of over €5bn. The company has around 14,000 employees in 38 countries, and it invests in its diverse and talented teams.
Hitachi Rail’s business is local, but its reach is global. With deep roots in its communities, the company is committed to delivering sustainable progress for all.
Find out about more by visiting hitachirail.com
