Plan for battery-powered Desiros

Porterbrook is considering converting AC-powered Class 350/2 Desiros so that they can be powered by batteries.

The rolling stock leasing company owns 37 four-car sets (dating from 2008-09) that are due to be sent off-lease by West Midlands Trains following the delivery of newer electric multiple units. It says the trains are Britain’s most reliable, recording 100,420 Miles per Technical Incident.

Branded the BatteryFLEX, the ‘350/2s’ would be able to match or outperform diesel trains on existing non-electrified routes - particularly in key corridors across the north of England, according to their owner.

“The addition of the BatteryFLEX to our rolling stock portfolio will help train operators further reduce their carbon footprint and emissions, while maintaining performance and delivery,” said Porterbrook CEO Mary Grant.

Energy and power demands have been modelled for the Windermere branch. The modelling also shows that the ‘350/2’ could outperform similar traction over high-speed routes such as the West Coast Main Line, particularly on local services.

Porterbrook is in discussions with specialists in battery chemistry to create a demonstrator unit that can showcase this new technology to interested train operators, their passengers and the communities they serve.