Clayton Equipment of Burton-on-Trent in Staffordshire has launched a 100% emission-free battery-powered shunting locomotive.

Based on a proven design and with a type designation of CB45, it is a two-axle 0-4-0 locomotive that weighs 45 tonnes. It has a centre cab and is designed to provide many of the benefits of a locomotive twice the size.

The locomotive is now in the final stages of development the offers significant benefits over much larger counterparts in Clayton’s locomotive range, including enhanced safety features, and improved efficiency and performance.

The CB45 has onboard chargers where battery charging comes from a 3-phase supply and uses regenerative braking to return energy back to the battery. It is designed for long-range use without recharging, with a range of up to 450 km unladen, 16 km with a load of 1,200 tonnes, and a maximum haulage capacity of 3,000 tonnes that is limited by the rating of the coupler. Tractive Effort is up to 180 kN.

With a centre cab the locomotives provide a better line of sight, whilst the cab itself gives the drivers a better environment. Improved safety features include a speed limiter with overspeed protection, a deadman’s vigilance device, and failsafe braking. The locomotives are fitted with CCTV, remote control, and remote diagnostic (IoT).

The use of battery technology is energy efficient and provides many benefits to the rail sector as it is emission-free, thereby improving air quality and a reduction in noise, which are key in the drive to decarbonise transport rapidly.

Over recent years battery performance and costs have improved significantly, and battery-powered trains are becoming increasingly common.

As well as the CB45, Clayton Equipment has the most extensive range of battery locomotives on the market that contribute to a sustainable approach to railway shunting, are future-ready, and economical to operate while reducing their environmental impact. They also conserve resources by using green technologies to constantly set new standards. Earlier this year, the company supplied a battery-powered locomotive to the Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk, and has previously supplied Sellafield with hybrid locomotives..