INNOTRANS: Austrian Federal Railways unveiled its InnoShunt eHybrid prototype electric-supercapacitor-battery shunting locomotive at InnoTrans.

The technology development project is being undertaken jointly by ÖBB, the Ministry of Transport, Innovation & Technology and a private investor, with each party meeting one-third of the cost.

The locomotive has been produced by rebuilding a Class 1063 electric locomotive. The work was undertaken by vehicle modernisation company TecSol.

The battery and supercapacitor technology has been provided by CRRC Zhuzhou.

The prototype has this equipment housed in modules mounted above the body, but according to TecSol Technical Manager Roman Moser this equipment would be inside the body of future series-rebuilt locomotives, and smaller in size.

The aim of the project is to combine the rapid charging of supercapacitors with the capabilities of a battery. The supercapacitors are charged when the locomotive is operating under 15 kV 16.7 Hz overhead electrification, and then provide power to the battery which has a slower recharge time. The battery then powers the locomotive on unelectrified lines.

The locomotive is intended for shunting applications, for example at stations with non-electrified sidings, eliminating the need for a diesel shunter. This is expected to bring cost savings.

The prototype is expected to have a capacity of 155 kWh, power of 200 to 800 kW, maximum speed of 100km/h and a range of 30 to 35 km with a 400 tonne load.

Following InnoTrans the locomotive will return to Wien to begin testing. If successful, ÖBB could convert its entire fleet of 60 similar locos, according to OBB Produktion Fleet Manager Klaus Ronge, who said no European manufacturers now offer a large all-electric shunting locomotive.