MECHANICSVILLE, Va. — Global electrical technology firm ABB will collaborate with Stadler on its passenger trainset orders for Metra and Caltrans, ABB said this week.
ABB will supply traction converters and batteries for the eight two-car battery-electric trainsets Metra ordered last year [see “Metra signs deal with Stadler US …,” Trains News Wire, Feb. 21, 2024]. The trains will be equipped with ABB’s Pro 8C batteries and CC750 DC traction converters. Those batteries and traction converters, as well as CC400 DC traction converters, will also be part of the Caltrans order for 10 hydrogen fuel-cell trainsets played in 2023 and last year [see “California orders six more hydrogen-powered trainsets …,” News Wire, Feb. 15, 2024].
Assembly and testing of the components will be conducted at ABB’s Traction factory in Mechanicsville. Since 2010, ABB has invested more than $14 billion in U.S. plant expansions, improvements, equipment, products, and people.
“Our collaboration with Stadler is a testament to our commitment to sustainable transportation solutions,” said Edgar Keller, president, ABB Traction division said in a press release. “By leveraging our advanced technology and local manufacturing capabilities, we are helping drive the transition to cleaner rail transport.” Said Martin Ritter, CEO Stadler North America, “By integrating ABB’s traction batteries and converters into our trainsets, we are not only enhancing the efficiency and reliability of our fleets but also contributing to a state-of-the-art transit future.”
That should equal 2 normal Metra sets. Probably only one running and one in the dead line.
I would think that a diesel/battery hybrid would be a better solution. CNG if you don’t want the diesel fumes.