Audi utilizes Alstom's hybrid train locomotive for its operations.
In the heart of Ingolstadt, Germany, a quiet revolution is underway. Freelance journalist Wolfgang Kempkens, an expert in environmental, energy, and technology topics, has been documenting this change. At the forefront of this transformation is Audi, with its fleet of innovative plug-in hybrid locomotives.
These locomotives, one of four versions built by Alstom, are making a significant impact within Audi's main plant. Powered by on-board batteries during operation in the halls, they can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h, although they are primarily used for short distances. The strongest version of the locomotive, with a power of 1000 kW, is driven by a diesel engine, while the weakest version, with a power of 600 kW, runs exclusively on electricity.
Siemens is also contributing to this shift, currently testing hybrid trucks with overhead lines on highways in Sweden. This collaboration underscores the industry's commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.
The new locomotives are not only faster and more powerful, but they are also cleaner and quieter than their predecessors. Each locomotive is equipped with particle filters and catalytic converters to reduce emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
With a battery life of two hours, although not at maximum speed, these locomotives can make up to 75 trips per day within the Audi plant. This efficiency is crucial, as 15 freight trains arrive daily at the Ingolstadt plant with parts and ready-to-deliver cars from other Audi plants.
In a forward-thinking move, Audi has already received a second plug-in hybrid locomotive, delivered at the beginning of 2016. However, the company delivering this second locomotive is not explicitly mentioned in the provided search results.
Wolfgang Kempkens, with his background in electrical engineering from RWTH Aachen, has been closely following this development. He notes that these new locomotives represent a significant step forward in the integration of battery technology into industrial operations, paving the way for a cleaner, quieter, and more energy-efficient future.
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