On Wednesday, 21st October at InnoTrans in Berlin, Hitachi Rail unveiled its new ‘Blues Train’, which is one of the world’s most advanced trains,

The train is a tri-mode unit that can operate from battery, electric, and diesel power. It has cutting-edge battery hybrid technology that reduces carbon emissions and fuel consumption by 50%, and can be used to power the train entirely by battery power when arriving at and departing from stations.

Built for Trenitalia, when it enters passenger service in Italy later this year it will be Europe’s first tri-mode fleet. Hitachi’s total framework agreement with Trenitalia includes the supply of up to 135 Blues trains worth €1.2bn.

The Blues Train is derived from Hitachi’s Masaccio platform and represents a significant breakthrough in the market, as it can operate on electrified and non-electrified lines. On electrified routes, it uses pantographs to draw power from overhead lines whilst on non-electrified lines, such as on smaller regional routes, it can use a combination of battery and diesel power.

When in or near stations the train can operate entirely in battery mode, thereby eliminating emissions including harmful NOx and reducing noise pollution. The batteries can be recharged while the train is in operation in both diesel and electric mode.

The Blues Train has four carriages and will built at Hitachi Rail’s factories in Pistoia and Naples. They have a top speed of 160km/h, and the extra power from the on-board batteries provides better acceleration and performance than existing diesel trains, which can result in reduced journey times.

The fleet can accommodate up to 300 people seated, and is suitable for families, leisure travellers, and regular commuters. Features include greater capacity for luggage and bikes, air conditioning, extra USB and power sockets, the latest in passenger information screens, and an area entirely dedicated to children.

Platform level door access makes it easier for wheelchair users, passengers with buggies or large bags, and people with limited mobility to board or get off the trains.

The Blues train is equipped with the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) digital signalling, which until now has only been used on high-speed trains. By regulating the speed, acceleration, and braking of trains, ERTMS can reduce the railway’s energy and emissions footprint. It can also improve safety by automatically activating train safety functions, including emergency braking in case of danger or if trains exceed a track’s line speed.

Andrew Barr, Group CEO, Hitachi Rail, said: “The Blues train, with its pioneering battery hybrid technology, is a hugely important way for railways across Europe to reduce their carbon emissions, while improving passengers’ journeys.

“We’re thrilled to unveil this technology here in Berlin and to begin passenger service in Italy later this year. We know that decarbonising transport is a vital mission around Europe, so we’re delighted to provide our customer with effective solutions that lessen the impact on the planet.”