Train engines cut to save fuel
Train engines cut to save fuel
2008-09-04Newsfeed
A railway firm is using satellite technology to turn off engines in what it believes is a unique initiative to save fuel.
A railway firm is using satellite technology to turn off engines in what it believes is a unique initiative to save fuel.
Some companies already use orbiting technology to track trains and tell drivers when to coast. First TransPennine Express has gone further, using the same technology to override the engine and cut power when it can tell a train is going down hill.
The firm piloted the scheme as a way to cut fuel costs on routes across the North of England. It has been hailed a success, with the firm claiming it is on target to save as much as 10% of its fuel use.
The technology allows multi-engined trains to shut down one of the engines when it is idle. The system is often used on downhill sections.
An onboard piece of software detects where the train is and what it is doing. On parts of the route an engine is automatically switched off, allowing the train to cruise.
First Transpennine Express believes it is the only company in the world using the technology.
Engineering director Nick Donovan said: "It simply stops engines from idly burning fuel. The feedback from drivers has been great. They are saying they are very impressed and it works a treat."
Copyright © The Press Association 2008
