German state of Baden-Württemberg to run battery-powered trains

Germany’s regional rail transport authority Landesanstalt Schienenfahrzeuge Baden-Württemberg (SFBW) has purchased 20 battery-powered trains from Siemens Mobility for operation in the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg.

The Mireo Plus B two-car electric trainsets can operate on rail routes with or without overhead power lines due to their battery hybrid drive. They are scheduled to operate in Network 8 of the Ortenau regional system. Under the terms of the €77 million contract, Siemens Mobility will also provide maintenance of the trains for nearly 30 years.

Siemens will also be responsible for energy consumption and energy costs over the entire contract period of 29.5 years.

The Mireo Plus B has a range of around 80km while in battery operation. Batteries can be charged via the overhead line while operating along electrified sections and by recuperating the train’s braking energy.
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