Think Railways

DB Schenker Rail UK are seeking to save over 4,500 tonnes in carbon emissions every year through the introduction of stop-start technology to ninety class 66 locomotives

DBSR UK has been trialling Auto Engine Stop Start technology (AESS) on a class 66 locomotive since February 2014. The loco 66176 has been working in Cornwall on the Imerys traffic flow. The trial has provided data which confirmed a reduction in fuel consumption when the stop start technology is used, resulting in a lower impact on the environment.

The technology, manufactured by ZTR, works in a similar manner to stop start technology in a car, stopping the engine from running when idling.  Results showed that the amount of time the engine was running was reduced by approximately one third. This would reduce CO2 emissions by over 50 tonnes, equating to a saving of over 4,500 tonnes of CO2 for the ninety class 66s that will be fitted with the technology by the end of 2015 - approximately a 10% reduction overall.

The company also anticipates that the technology will help improve reliability for customers. Tests indicate that use of the stop start technology will reduce the number of flat batteries as well as the  potential for locos to freeze in cold weather conditions. All relevant safety checks have also been carried out.

The roll-out will commence this year with 90 planned to be completed before the end of 2015. Andrew Byrne, Head of Maintenance and Infrastructure DBSR UK, said: "The Auto Engine Stop Start technology (AESS) provides huge opportunities to improve the environment impact of rail freight. Although rail freight is a more environmentally friendly mode of transport solution than road, we continuously seek to find ways in which the impact of rail freight can be reduced further.  We aspire to become an eco-pioneer, and this project is a key part of that strategy."