Rail Cargo Hungaria (RCH) has completed a test run using an electric-hybrid mainline locomotive operating solely on battery power.
Battery-powered operation on freight haul
The vehicle used in the test is part of a batch ordered from CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co.; a Chinese manufacturer based in Hunan province. RCH has placed an order for two mainline and two shunting locomotives built with electric-electric hybrid technology. According to available technical specifications, this model is capable of moving trains without external power, relying entirely on onboard battery storage.
The test scenario simulated a typical freight movement under operational conditions without contact wire support. The locomotive's energy demand was covered exclusively by its batteries, without backup from overhead lines or auxiliary diesel engines.
Technical capabilities and charging process
The hybrid locomotive features a rated power output of 5,600 kW. Its starting tractive effort is 300 kN, while its continuous tractive effort during normal operation is listed at 250 kN. The battery system can be recharged in 2.5 hours while operating on electrified lines, and in 8 to 10 hours during standstill, either via standard infrastructure or designated charging stations.
This configuration allows continued operation in areas where the traction power supply is unavailable due to infrastructure works or outages. It also covers industrial sidings and terminals lacking overhead lines, where traditional electric units would normally require replacement with diesel traction.
RCH’s order includes units adapted for both mainline freight and shunting applications, based on the same electric-hybrid principle. The battery-powered functionality is aimed at reducing reliance on diesel locomotives in transitional or unpowered sections of the rail network.
