Fully-electric train from Great Western Railway breaks UK record

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Great Western Railway (GWR), an iconic institution in British rail history since 1833, has recently achieved a significant milestone in its pursuit of sustainable train travel. In the third year of testing battery-electric rail technology, GWR has set a new UK record for the longest journey by a battery-electric train, marking a significant leap towards a greener future in regional transportation.

This accomplishment aligns with GWR’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, aiming to meet the ambitious net-zero emissions target set by the UK Government and the railway industry for 2050. A pivotal moment in this journey was the partnership formed with Vivarail in February 2022 to trial FastCharge technology. This innovative solution is designed to power battery-electric trains across the network, representing a key advancement in sustainable rail travel. The acquisition of the intellectual property for FastCharge technology allowed GWR to implement necessary infrastructure, such as charging rails and line-side battery banks, setting the stage for groundbreaking trials.

The record-breaking event occurred when GWR’s electric train traveled 138km (86 miles) on a single charge, surpassing the previous 135km (84 miles) record held by a Stadler Class 777. This was followed by another impressive feat, with a battery-electric Class 230 train covering a 70-mile distance while using just 45% of its battery capacity, indicating the potential for over 120 miles of travel before requiring a recharge.

GWR’s focus now shifts towards further testing and research to integrate this technology seamlessly into its network. This includes compatibility testing and exploring the servicing needs of electric trains. The upcoming trials on the Greenford line will employ FastCharge technology, allowing rapid recharging in merely 3.5 minutes, showcasing the practical application of this technology in real-world settings.

These trials not only highlight GWR’s role in reducing CO2 emissions by over 1,700 tons annually but also demonstrate the viability of expanding electric train technology across the UK’s rail network. GWR’s successful integration of battery-electric trains heralds a new era of rail travel, emphasizing environmental stewardship without compromising on efficiency or passenger convenience. This initiative stands as a testament to the potential for rail travel to contribute significantly to the UK’s sustainability goals, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future in transportation.

« Back to Page

• Jet2 issues travel advisory for British tourists planning trip to France

• Devastating storm Pia affects Christmas travel plans in UK

• EasyJet issues travel warning for British tourists

• Spain officially introduce a new restriction list on travel for British

• British sign language introduces at major railway stations