Rail industry innovators, Positive Traction, are set to showcase their pioneering work in decarbonising the railway at Railtex / Infrarail / Rail Safety & Standards Expo (RSN) 2025. A fully converted, battery-powered Class 08e shunting locomotive will be a key attraction on the show approach, demonstrating the company’s commitment to a greener future for rail.
Leveraging significant experience within the rail sector alongside expertise in renewable energy, Positive Traction is tackling the challenge of reducing carbon emissions head-on. Their approach involves an ambitious series of projects focused on transforming diesel locomotives using cutting-edge battery technology and modern electronic control systems. The result? Cleaner vehicles with dramatically lower emissions.
The company believes the technology provides:
- Lower running costs.
- Less maintenance.
- No future penalties.
Positive Traction has successfully converted a Class 08 diesel shunting locomotive, originally dating back to the 1950s, to run entirely on battery power. This prototype has been meticulously developed to provide a cost-effective and emission-free alternative to traditional diesel power for both shunting and various industrial applications.
In a move that aligns with the government’s net-zero policy, this electric locomotive presents a compelling alternative to existing diesel traction. The newly converted loco is equipped with plug-in lithium-ferro-phosphate traction batteries and boasts a power rating of 450 horsepower. Importantly, the design is scalable, allowing Positive Traction to adapt the power output to meet the specific needs of different clients.
Visitors to RSN 2025 will have the opportunity to see this innovative locomotive up close as it will be displayed on a heavy haulage trailer, courtesy of Reid Freight. This demonstration promises to be a highlight of the event, showcasing a tangible step towards a more sustainable railway network.
To find out more about Positive Traction, click here.
To find out more about Reid Engineering, click here.
To register for RSN, click here.
Photo credit: Positive Traction
