Visual monitoring for protection
Battery trains for sustainable and flexible mobility
Battery Multiple Unit (BMU) und Battery Electric Multiple Unit (BEMU). Fotos: KONČAR
KONČAR presented its first battery-powered train at InnoTrans 2024. Just one year later, the company delivered both a dual-system multiple unit for overhead line and battery operation (Battery Electric Multiple Unit - BEMU) and a battery train (Battery Multiple Unit - BMU) to the operator HŽ Putnički prijevoz (HŽPP) along with the associated charging infrastructure.
The BEMU has a purely electric drive system that can draw its energy as well as from the on-board batteries as from the overhead line. As a significant part of the Croatian railway network is not yet electrified, this hybrid operational capability provides an ideal solution for sustainable and CO₂-neutral long-distance transport with passengers throughout the country.
The multiple unit can run seamlessly on both electrified and non-electrified routes, allowing flexible use and maximum coverage of the railway network. It is designed for a daily mileage of up to 480 kilometres with an operating time of up to 18 hours. On non-electrified routes, it can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h in battery-only mode, while on electrified sections - powered by the overhead contact line - it can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h. The batteries are charged either during operation through the overhead line or at stationary charging stations.
The battery-powered multiple unit from KONČAR is currently the only train of its kind in commercial operation in Europe and is one of the pioneers of this type worldwide. Its optimum range per charge is around 100 kilometres, with test runs under optimum conditions even confirmed ranges of more than 200 kilometres. Both train variants have ramps for wheelchair access, designated bicycle areas and barrier-free toilets.
The passenger compartment is equipped with video surveillance. Passenger information systems include screen monitors, visual and acoustic station announcements and free Wi-Fi. In addition, both can be coupled with the latest generation of KONČAR low-floor trains so that capacity can be flexibly scaled according to operational requirements.
KONČAR has not only installed the trains, but also appropriate charging systems, each with a capacity of one megawatt, which enable short charging times of just 27 minutes. Six of these systems have already been put into operation across the entire national network, with two more to follow shortly.
KONČAR Inc
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