Chicago Metra’s new battery-electric train charges through regenerative braking

Chicago’s commuter rail system is preparing for a major shift away from diesel power. Metra is set to introduce a new battery-electric train developed by Stadler. The development marks an important step toward zero-emission passenger rail in the United States.

The battery-electric FLIRT represents a new generation of zero-emission rail technology. It is designed to help transit agencies modernize service without the need for full corridor electrification. Metra ordered eight battery-electric train sets as part of its commitment to cleaner, more efficient, and more flexible passenger transportation solutions. The new battery train is expected to enter passenger service by 2028.

Stadler’s proven FLIRT platform which utilizes onboard lithium-ion batteries

“As transit agencies across North America explore practical pathways toward reducing emissions, battery-electric rail technology is becoming an increasingly attractive solution,” said Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler North America.

“We are proud to present the first U.S. battery FLIRT and demonstrate how innovative vehicle technology can help agencies achieve their sustainability, service, and operational goals.”

The train is based on Stadler’s proven FLIRT platform and utilizes onboard lithium-ion batteries to allow operation on non-electrified rail corridors while producing zero local emissions. The train can recharge using existing 480V cabling in yards and terminals, through dedicated charging infrastructure, and by recovering energy through regenerative braking. This flexibility enables rail operators to deploy electric service on routes where traditional electrification may not be economically feasible, according to a press release.

“This purchase demonstrates Metra’s commitment to cleaner power, to quieter trains, and to thinking outside the box as we plan for our future,” said Metra CEO Jim Derwinski. “We are excited to bring this technology, and its efficiency, flexibility, and reliability, to Chicago and to our riders.”

The company revealed that the battery-electric rail technology is already delivering results in Europe. Stadler’s FLIRT Akku trains entered passenger service in Germany in 2023, where they operate on partially electrified regional networks and replace diesel-powered services. The deployment has demonstrated how battery trains can support decarbonization goals while maintaining reliable passenger operations.

“These new train sets are coming at a perfect time,” said Northern Illinois Transit Authority Chairman Tom Kotarac. “As NITA begins its work to create a more cohesive and useful public transportation system in northeast Illinois, we are excited about the potential for these new trainsets to help increase service and improve regional connectivity, while at the same time reducing regional pollution and noise.”

FLIRT trains are now successfully operating in 24 countries. FLIRT trains travel over a million kilometres every day on standard and broad-gauge tracks and in very different climate zones – from Africa to the Arctic Circle. Only a few other trains can boast such consistency and can be adapted as flexibly to varied framework conditions und customer requirements.

Source: https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/zero-emission-battery-electric-flirt-train