Siemens Mobility has announced the introduction of its new battery-electric passenger locomotive, the Charger B+AC, for the North American market. This marks a significant step as it becomes the first battery-electric powered passenger locomotive in North America.
The Charger B+AC is part of Siemens Mobility's efforts to expand its portfolio of alternative propulsion technologies. The company already offers various drive systems such as the battery-electric Mireo Plus B, hydrogen-powered Mireo Plus H, and Vectron locomotives with hybrid operation capabilities. The new Charger B+AC aims to provide flexibility and operational efficiency tailored specifically for North American rail services.
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility, stated: "Expanding our portfolio with the Charger B+AC emphasizes our dedication to providing the best propulsion solutions for every customer need." He highlighted that these advancements allow operators to make sustainable investments backed by reliable platforms and extensive rail expertise.
The Charger platform by Siemens Mobility is well-established in North America, with over 400 units sold. The new iteration removes diesel engines in favor of a modular battery system and pantograph. This design supports electrical power from overhead catenary wires while seamlessly switching to battery mode where needed. It maintains speeds up to 125 mph and can travel up to 100 miles on battery power alone.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and Metro-North Railroad have commissioned Siemens Mobility to design and produce 13 battery-electric locomotives for their fleet expansion in New York. This order signifies an important milestone for both Siemens Mobility and the broader rail industry.
These locomotives are manufactured in compliance with Buy America requirements and offer flexible charging options including catenary, plug-in, and dynamic braking. With features like a future-proof modular battery system and familiar operator interfaces, customers can rely on these locomotives for efficient service across varying train lengths according to ridership demands.