Caltrain and Stadler Rail have announced an agreement for Stadler to provide four additional bi-level electric multiple unit (EMU) trains and one bi-level battery vehicle to Caltrain. The order is an option from Caltrain's current contract with Stadler.
The battery-powered vehicle (BEMU) will be the first of its kind in the United States and will allow Caltrain to operate zero-emission service on the portion of its corridor that is not yet electrified. The BEMU train, which will be purchased on a contract option with Stadler, is an EMU train with additional energy storage capacity. The BEMU will charge while the train runs on overhead power in the electrified service areas and then use battery charge to travel “off-wire” on non-electrified track areas.
"Making the switch from fossil fuels to electric power is vital for California to meet its transportation and climate change goals," said California secretary of transportation Toks Omishakin. "This demonstration train will continue California's clean energy, innovative leadership."
"We're excited to be the first in the nation to pilot this hybrid electric and battery service to extend our zero-emission service beyond our electrified service areas," said Jeff Gee, Caltrain Board Chair. "This will not only allow for more sustainable and environmentally friendly operations, but also faster and more reliable travel times for riders."
The Caltrain Board also approved exercising the options on its contract with Stadler for four electric multiple unit (EMU) trains to replace aging diesel trains and rail cars. These trains along with the battery-powered vehicle will allow Caltrain to run over 90% of its service with electric trains.
“Stadler is proud to continue our partnership with Caltrain and our shared mission of helping California provide zero emission travel” said Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US. “With additional double-deck EMUs and this first-of-its-kind BEMU for Caltrain, Stadler is able to expand our overall portfolio for the US market, especially in the zero-emission product line.”
It is hoped by both Stadler and Caltrain that the introduction of the BEMU train will act as a catalyst for expansion of the technology and help the US replace its aging diesel fleets. There are currently no bi-level off-wire battery dual mode commuter trains in operations in the United States, and the potential of this technology could make the transition to electrified service easier for other operators by not requiring full overhead line coverage throughout entire train corridors.
The train will go into operations after additional testing and certifications from regulatory agencies. The 4-car vehicle consists of three passenger cars and one battery-head, which houses the battery and power equipment.
Photo: Istock
