Railcare launch battery-Powered railway maintenance vehicle

Railcare Group, a Sweden-based railway maintenance company has announced the launch of the world's largest battery-powered railway maintenance vehicle.

The new machine is based on a previous multi-purpose model and can be applied to a number of maintenance scenarios including being used to vacuum away stones, rubbish and any other obstacles blocking tracks as well as melting snow, towing vehicles and ballast wagons during track work.

It is equipped with its own power source, vacuum pumps, hydraulic, and operator cabs, enabling it to be used as a battery-powered complement to Railcare's railway vacuum excavator and snow melter.

The vehicle was launched on the back partner company Epiroc's new battery-powered technology platform, with the batteries for the project supplied by fellow Swedish developer Northvolt.

Epiroc claims the new technologies were primarily designed with the mining industry in mind, but also say it is suitable for other types of machines that work in tough environments and can be particularly useful for industries looking to phase out diesel vehicles in favour of a greener and more sustainable workforce.

Because of this, the company announced its intention to introduce its design to the railway sector, with its partnership with Railcare being announced back in February 2019.

Helena Hedblom, Epiroc's President and CEO, said: "Railcare's launch of a battery-electric railway maintenance vehicle is a vital step forward in the global effort to reduce CO2 emissions and we are happy out battery-electric technology platform can be used for other important purposes beyond mining."

Railcare CEO Daniel Öholm, said: "We chose to work with Epiroc on this project because they are leading the development of drivelines and battery-powered mining equipment. 

"Our customers around the world have a huge demand for this type of solution, especially in city centres, tunnels and mines where exhaust fumes and noise levels are a big environmental problem. This new machine will be a game-changer for the entire railway industry.

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