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Project win: Comparison framework for rail battery traction modelling

27 October 2026

Aether will support the University of Hull and Cranfield University to devise a comparison framework for rail battery traction modelling. This project is part of a new initiative of the UK Rail Research and Innovation Network (UKRRIN).

Increased use of alternative traction types, such as battery electric multiple units (BEMUs) and battery locomotives, is a key component of the rail sector’s decarbonisation strategy. Procurement of newer traction types is often informed by the results of proprietary models. This project aims to reduce procurement risks by enabling modelling results to be better understood and compared.

The project will also enhance industry understanding by quantifying the impact of different factors on battery sizing (e.g. route characteristics including local power supply limitations, battery design including cell chemistry, and internal system performance including auxiliary loads). This will enable the most important aspects to be prioritised in future model design. It will also permit greater understanding of the drivers of different outputs between different models.

Throughout the project we will engage with our industry partners: Transport for Wales, Porterbrook, Heavy Haul Rail, Railwhere, East West Rail, Angel Trains, and Great Western Railway. Our partners will help identify the purposes and aims of different battery modelling tools. They will ensure the devised framework and guidance delivers benefits for the industry.

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