South Australia today rolled its first newly-converted hybrid train into service, promising a quieter and more comfortable ride for commuters on the Adelaide Metro network.
After a successful testing period, the hybrid-diesel train will run on the Outer Harbor, Grange and Belair lines – instantly recognisable by its distinctive bright-green wrap, said Energy Minister, Tom Koutsantonis.
“Reducing our environmental impact and using significantly less fuel, this new hybrid-train also offers a great customer experience, particularly at Adelaide Railway Station where the diesel engine can remain off – reducing noise and fumes for those on board and in the station,” the Minister said.
“We are about exploring any technologies or solutions to de-carbonise and deliver a net zero-emissions public transport system.”
Mr Koutsantonis said the hybrid-diesel trains are quieter and release fewer fumes than traditional diesels trains, using up to 20% less fuel and providing a more comfortable journey for passengers.
Each rail car of the Adelaide two-car train set has been fitted with an Energy Storage and Recovery System. They are the first of 44 diesel railcars expected to be fitted with the hybrid system.
The Energy Storage and Recovery System works by recovering excess energy when the train brakes and storing it in a battery for later use.
The battery will also be used instead of the diesel engine to supply auxiliary loads – power for lighting and air-conditioning, for example – at the train platform within Adelaide Railway Station to reduce noise, emissions, and air pollution.
Installation of the Energy Storage and Recovery System on the remaining trains will be a phased roll-out, with all trains expected to feature the new system by late-2024.
Once fully installed, Adelaide Metro will save an estimated 2,400 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
