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Energy-saving hybrid propulsion system using storage-battery technology
As a step toward providing environmentally friendly propulsion systems, Hitachi has developed a hybrid propulsion system combining an engine generator with storage batteries. This system provides regenerative braking not previously possible on conventional diesel-powered trains, and this makes increased energy savings via regenerated energy possible. The system uses a series-hybrid configuration designed to allow immediate system conversion (by replacing the engine generator with a fuel-cell unit) in the future, when fuel-cell technology becomes more widely established.
This hybrid propulsion system has been jointly developed with East Japan Railway Company (JR-East) and has been installed in a JR-East Class E991 experimental vehicle(Picture shown on the left) for performance trials.