Stadler to tailor battery-electric train to US market
Stadler has teamed up with Utah State University (USU) and the ASPIRE Engineering Research Center for the development, manufacturing and testing of a FLIRT Akku battery-powered two-car multiple unit tailored to the American market.
While already a staple in various parts in Germany, the battery-powered FLIRT Akku has yet to be adapted to US infrastructure and national regulations. ASPIRE has been brought on board for the development of the trackside charging infrastructure while USU will join for the testing phase, during which time the parties involved hope to gather insights about running a battery train on American tracks.
The Stadler train will be deployed in Utha’s Wasatch area, where stakeholders hope the project will result in manufacturing jobs as well as an opening for electrified commuter and light rail systems in the future.
“With little to no electrified routes in the North American public rail transit system, a battery train is a great zero-emission alternative to diesel-powered vehicles. After a contract for a hydrogen-powered FLIRT for California, we are now excited to bring our battery solution to the United States”, Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US, said in comments on the deal.
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