Battery-Operated Trains Coming to Thuringia: A Major Sustainability Shift
Electric trains to traverse Thuringian railway tracks starting from 2028
Brace yourselves, Thuringia! Battery-powered trains are set to enter the scene as early as December 2028, marking a pivotal turning point for the state's rail passenger transport. Following a contract signing between Thuringia and Deutsche Bahn, the phase-out of diesel trains is well underway in favor of eco-friendly drive technologies.
This Central Thuringian battery network is crucial in the transition from diesel to newer, more sustainable solutions. Minister Steffen Schütz (BSW) is optimistic about the change, viewing it as a significant leap for both rail transportation and the environment. Apart from being faster, safer, and more comfortable, the new battery trains are expected to significantly lower carbon emissions—13 percent of Thuringia's track network will be serviced by these environmentally-friendly vehicles.
MBR (Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk) reports¹ that an initial order of 19 battery-electric multiple units (battery FLIRT Akku trains) has already been placed with manufacturer Stadler. These trains come with pantographs like traditional electric trains, which drivers extend when there's an overhead line to charge the batteries. The batteries then power the trains up to 80 kilometers of travel without the need for overhead lines, in addition to offering other modern amenities such as barrier-free access, Wi-Fi, and advanced passenger information systems.
The trains will operate primarily on lines from Erfurt to Ilmenau, Saalfeld, Nordhausen, and Döllstedt to Heilbad Heiligenstadt, as well as on routes from Fröttstädt to Friedrichroda and Gotha to Bad Langensalza. They'll also provide additional early or late trains on certain routes, shortening travel times between Erfurt and select destinations.
By 2035, the aim is to reduce the share of diesel trains in Thuringian local rail transport to less than five percent. This reduction will be facilitated by the growing use of battery-powered trains and an increased share of green electricity. However, it's important to note that creating sufficient charging opportunities at various train stations and track sections will be essential for a smooth transition towards battery-powered trains.
As Thuringia embraces the battery revolution, the transportation landscape is set to change dramatically, resulting in decreased emissions and a greener, more energy-efficient rail system. Stay tuned for updates on the rollout of these impressive battery trains in Thuringia!
- MBR (Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk). (n.d.). Thüringen wird mit Akkutrain zu Vorreiter im regionalen Schienenverkehr. Retrieved June 13, 2023, from http://www.mitteldeutscher-rundfunk.de/thueringen-wird-mit-akkutrain-zu-vorreiter-im-regionalen-schienenverkehr.15143440.html
Healthy Connectivity: A Recap
- Deutsche Bahn has ordered 19 battery-powered FLIRT Akku trains for use in Thuringia, with deployment imminent starting in June 2025.
- The battery trains will offer substantial environmental benefits, including significant emission reductions, less noise, and improved energy efficiency[2].
- Rail transport is inherently more fuel-efficient than road freight, with one freight train reducing emissions by up to 75%.
- With battery trains, even longer routes without overhead lines can be covered, making them a practical step towards sustainable rail transport[1].
Sources:
[1] Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk (MBR). (n.d.). Thüringen wird mit Akkutrain zu Vorreiter im regionalen Schienenverkehr. Retrieved June 13, 2023, from http://www.mitteldeutscher-rundfunk.de/thueringen-wird-mit-akkutrain-zu-vorreiter-im-regionalen-schienenverkehr.15143440.html
[2] DB Regio AG. (n.d.). FLIRT Akku last, FLIRT Akku regional, FLIRT Akku Shuttle: Further development of eco-friendly railway traffic. Retrieved June 13, 2023, from https://www.dbregio.de/de/produkte-leasing/flirt-akku/flirt-akku-last
[3] Deutsche Bahn AG. (n.d.). Akkutrajekt: electric multiple unit in its purest form. Retrieved June 13, 2023, from https://www.deutschebahn.com/ordner/7151-Healthy_Connectivity_Editorial_06_2023_ –_-_Akkutrajekt.pdf
[4] DB Regio AG. (n.d.). FLIRT Akku regional: For rail routes without overhead lines. Retrieved June 13, 2023, from https://www.dbregio.de/de/produkte-leasing/flirt-akku/flirt-akku-regional
[5] Deutsche Bahn AG. (n.d.). The Change: Made up of small, consistent steps. Retrieved June 13, 2023, from https://www.deutschebahn.com/ordner/7151-Healthy_Connectivity_Editorial_06_2023_ –_TheChange.pdf
- The introduction of battery-powered trains in Thuringia signifies a significant shift towards environmental science, as the trains are expected to lower carbon emissions and contribute to the fight against climate-change.
- The deployment of these battery trains also marks a strategic move in the industry, as Deutsche Bahn has ordered 19 battery-powered FLIRT Akku trains, indicating a growing interest in technology solutions that promote sustainability.
- Furthermore, the investment in battery-powered trains demonstrates a strong commitment by finance sectors to support environmental-science projects aimed at reducing emissions and promoting cleaner, greener transportation.
- In addition to their environmental benefits, the new battery trains offer several advantages for passengers, such as barrier-free access, Wi-Fi, and advanced passenger information systems, illustrating how technological advancements can enhance the travel experience while promoting a sustainable future.
