Eco Factor: Electric train powered by batteries.
While auto manufacturers are looking forward to the best battery technology that can make their upcoming cars fast, silent and zero-emission, Norfolk Southern is taking a technology to locomotives with a prototype battery-powered train, the NS 999.
The switching train is powered by a series of 1080 lead-acid 12V batteries, which collectively generate an output of 1500hp. The $1.3 million prototype was developed in conjunction with the DOE, the Federal Railroad Administration and Penn State University.
The locomotive charges its batteries with a regenerative braking system and when fully charged the train can operate for three shifts before needing another recharge.
Via: Inhabitat
