As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, reducing carbon emissions from transportation is a key priority. Rail transport, known for its energy efficiency and low emissions, plays a crucial role in this effort. However, despite being one of the most sustainable modes of transport, there is still significant room for improvement. 

The importance of rail electrification in reducing emissions

Rail transport accounts for approximately 16.4 percent of freight transport and 6.0 percent of passenger transport on land but is only responsible for 0.4 percent of overall transport emissions². This efficiency makes rail a prime candidate for further electrification to maximize sustainability. Solutions such as hybrid locomotives, biofuels, and hydrogen-powered trains can play a vital role in reducing emissions in areas where full electrification is not feasible. 

The shift from diesel to electric and hybrid rail transport

Currently, diesel-powered trains account for approximately 54 percent of total rail energy consumption, while electric trains -powered by overhead lines or onboard batteries - make up 45 percent¹. Transitioning from diesel to electricity-based rail transport can significantly reduce emissions, with potential reductions ranging from 50 percent to 60 percent, depending on regional energy sources.

A pivotal strategy is the integration of hybrid technologies into new and existing rail vehicles, combining traditional diesel engines with electric power sources. This approach not only lowers environmental impact but also offers operational flexibility and efficiency.

Transforming Adelaide Metro into Australia's first diesel-hybrid train fleet

ABB's cutting-edge technologies were pivotal in converting Adelaide Metro into Australia's first-ever diesel-hybrid train fleet. This transformation was part of a broader initiative to enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact. The project involved retrofitting 50 existing diesel trains with ABB's advanced traction converters and high-performance lithium-ion batteries. This upgrade not only significantly reduces CO₂ emissions by 54 tons per train annually, but also minimizes noise pollution, particularly beneficial in urban areas and during off-peak hours. The hybrid trains delivered greatly improved energy efficiency, with a total energy efficiency improvement of up to 35 percent, marking a significant milestone in Australia's journey towards greener public transportation.

Enabling Austria's commitment to sustainable rail maintenance

Our technologies are also used to support railway maintenance vehicles which ensure rapid availability in the event of unexpected disruptions but also contribute to rail infrastructure projects.

For example, in Austria we are helping the national rail operator, Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), achieve its climate neutrality goals. A key component of this initiative is the modernization of its maintenance fleet, traditionally powered by diesel engines. ÖBB has partnered with Plasser & Theurer, a manufacturer of track infrastructure vehicles, to introduce innovative hybrid maintenance vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with ABB's traction converters and high-performance lithium-ion batteries, facilitating operations in both electric and battery modes.

This dual-mode capability ensures reduced CO₂ emissions and minimizes noise pollution, especially beneficial during maintenance work in tunnels and urban areas. 

Retrofitting: breathing new life into existing locomotives

Retrofitting existing diesel locomotives presents a viable pathway to sustainability. Swiss-based Müller Technologie exemplifies this approach by converting mid-1990s diesel locomotives into hybrid models capable of operating in three distinct modes: overhead line power, traction battery power, and diesel generator power. The locomotives are generally used in construction and maintenance, and one of their tasks is to supply power for electric tools. 

This conversion leverages ABB's advanced traction systems, and overall, diesel consumption is expected to be reduced by up to 85 percent compared to the pre-conversion figure. This equates to 8,500 liters of diesel fuel per locomotive that will be saved every year.

The retrofit project prepares the 5 locomotives for a sustainable future and will extend their lifetime by further 25 years. The project itself is being implemented on an environmentally-friendly basis, with 28 tons of steel - including the old engine, traction converter, and some body panels – being recycled from each locomotive. 

A path towards sustainable rail transport

The integration of hybrid technologies into the railway industry represents a pivotal step toward sustainable transportation. Through innovative projects like Australia’s Adelaide Metro hybrid fleet, Austria's hybrid maintenance vehicles and Müller's retrofitted locomotives, the industry is demonstrating that environmental responsibility and operational efficiency can go hand in hand. 

By adopting sustainable alternatives to diesel engines, enhancing electrification, and implementing cutting-edge technologies, ABB enables the rail sector to outrun leaner and cleaner.

Footnotes

1. Rail - IEA
2. Moving towards the 2040 climate target with rail - CER Position Paper