Innovations in Rail Electrification and Propulsion Technologies
In the UK, innovative developments are underway to advance rail electrification and propulsion. Riding Sunbeams built a 40 kW solar array in Aldershot in 2019, which directly feeds power to a rail line, making it the only example of such solar-to-rail integration in the UK. However, this integration is limited by grid constraints and the need to convert DC solar output to AC for overhead lines, prompting the development of an external DC-to-AC converter.
At Colton Junction on the Leeds–York line, recent electrification was carried out using 3D modeling software developed by the University of Huddersfield. Trains have been running at maximum speed since August, which has reduced the need for traditional testing methods.
Innovative propulsion methods are also being explored. Nevomo is developing an electromagnetic propulsion system that uses an external track-mounted aluminum cable to generate a magnetic field moving magnet-equipped wagons, potentially eliminating the need for locomotives. Initial demonstrations are planned for next year at a Bremen steel plant and an Indian port on tracks less than 1 km long.
In the US, Parallel Systems is developing battery-powered, independently moving freight wagons with an approximately 800 km range. Their goal is to offer rail-based delivery competitive with trucking, aiming to capture about 10% of the trucking market.
Network Rail is seeking external suppliers for rail-side renewable energy solutions, with Riding Sunbeams planning to bid for contracts and describing this as a significant opportunity.
Stuart Hillmansen of the University of Birmingham notes that while managing individual wagon movements on existing networks is challenging, electrification technologies remain feasible. He emphasizes that the business case for these new technologies will be critical.
Overall, electrified trains remain the preferred option for new railways, but multiple novel approaches including solar integration, electromagnetic propulsion, and battery-powered wagons are being explored and must prove their viability in the market.
