Great Western Railway (GWR) has set a new world record for the furthest distance travelled by a battery-electric train on a single charge. The train, a Class 230, completed an incredible 200-mile return journey from Reading to Oxford and London Paddington, smashing the previous record of 139 miles. The record was verified by officials from the Rail Performance Society.
The achievement coincides with the 200th anniversary of the modern railway and highlights the potential of battery technology as a sustainable alternative to diesel trains. The train used for the record-breaking journey is the same one that GWR has been using for its successful fast-charge trial on the Greenford branch line.
Nigel Smedley, Vice Chair of the Rail Performance Society, said: “We can confirm that, subject to final checks, the Great Western Railway Class 230 train travelled 200 miles on a return journey from Reading Train Care Depot without charging its batteries from any external energy source.”
The new world record follows the publication of a White Paper by GWR last month, which concluded that battery trains could be a viable and cost-effective alternative to the operator’s ageing regional fleet, which is expected to be withdrawn from service in the next 7-10 years.
Dr Simon Green, GWR Engineering Director, said: “We’re delighted to set a new world record – and to reach 200 miles in such a landmark year for the rail industry is the icing on the cake. It’s a real tribute to colleagues at GWR and Network Rail who have worked so hard on developing fast-charge technology. Today’s record attempt has been a bit of fun, but it also underlines a serious point: investment in battery technology is essential as we look to replace our ageing diesel fleet. Overhead lines will remain the first choice to power electric trains, but where that isn’t possible or desirable, battery technology like this offers a reliable and efficient alternative to bridge the gap. As part of our future rolling stock plans we’ll need battery trains to routinely cover over 60 miles between charges – and today’s achievement provides clear evidence that this is a viable and exciting solution for the future of our railway.”
Simon Gillibrand, Network Rail Operations Director, said: “We’d like to congratulate GWR on setting this world record – reaching 200 miles during the Railway 200 celebrations is not just a symbolic achievement, but an important breakthrough that highlights the potential of battery-powered trains. Rail is already the greenest form of public transport and today’s record-breaking journey shows what an important role new technologies will play in our commitment to a low-emission railway, with a goal of reaching net-zero by 2050.”
