Tackling sustainability across railway Industry

The rail industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the need for more sustainable and energy-efficient transportation. While already one of the cleanest modes of transportation, rail has still much room to improve.

 

Sustainable railway solutions are essential to reduce emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and support a greener transport ecosystem.

It pays to prioritize sustainability

The Swiss-based Müller Technologie is using ABB traction equipment to upgrade old diesel locomotives to hybrid and overhead line operation. The ABB technology is enabling three driving modes, giving the locomotives great flexibility and a new life to meet the environmental requirements. The capability for zero-emission operation will be especially useful at work sites and in tunnels.

Up to 28 tons of steel recycled per locomotive

<p>The project itself is being implemented on an environmentally-friendly basis, with 28 tons of steel - including the old engine, traction converter, and some body panels - being recycled from each locomotive.</p>

Up to 85% reduction in diesel consumption

<p>Overall, diesel consumption is expected to be reduced by up to 85% compared to the pre-conversion figure. This equates to 8,500 liters of diesel fuel per locomotive that will be saved every year.</p>

Extend locomotives lifetime by 25 years

<p>The retrofit project prepares the 5 locomotives for a sustainable future and will extend their lifetime by further 25 years.</p>

ABB’s approach to sustainable railway solutions

ABB offers a range of sustainable solutions to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance operational sustainability. From energy-efficient converters and traction motors to advanced battery systems and service programs, ABB helps rail operators meet sustainability goals while maintaining high performance.

  1. Energy efficiency improvement

    High‑performance traction systems improve energy efficiency by making every part of the movement process-from powering the motor to slowing down-work smarter and waste less energy. By building the components to be lighter, better‑cooled, and more tightly integrated, the system needs less energy to deliver the same performance. Altogether, these improvements mean vehicles can travel further, use less electricity, and operate more smoothly and reliably.

  2. Enable zero-emission operations

    Reducing emissions is critical to shaping a sustainable future for rail. The industry is moving toward cleaner energy sources and smarter infrastructure to eliminate reliance on fossil fuels. ABB supports this transition by enabling electrification, integrating renewable energy, and deploying digital solutions that reduce carbon footprints. These advancements can help rail operators align with global climate goals and deliver greener journeys for passengers and freight.

  3. Extend asset lifetime through modernization

    Comprehensive life-cycle services and sustainable retrofit solutions are helping operators modernize fleets and achieve long-term sustainability goals. ABB’s solutions optimize performance and reduce waste throughout the entire life-cycle of rail systems.

ABB solutions for your challenges

We are supporting rail operators with innovative solutions that help them achieve sustainability goals while delivering efficient, reliable, and low‑emission operations.

ABB solutions for your challenges

Traction Converters

Designed for tight installations without compromising performance. Integrated, high-performance traction converters are combining propulsion and auxiliary power into a single, compact and reliable unit.

Auxiliary Converters

Efficient auxiliary converters ensure stable, high‑quality power for onboard systems. By minimizing energy losses and optimizing power distribution, ABB's Auxiliary Converters contribute to overall sustainability.

Traction Motors

Experience the precision and efficiency of ABB’s electric traction motors, designed to meet the unique demands of modern mobility. ABB's tailor made Traction Motors deliver reliable, energy-efficient performance for demanding rail applications reducing energy consumption and lowering the environmental impact.

Traction Batteries

Based on lithium-ion technology, ABB's Traction Batteries are engineered for maximum safety and long lifetime. The Traction Batteries are used in various railway application, that enable cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable rail mobility.

Retrofit Solutions for Rolling Stock

ABB's retrofit solutions enable operators to modernize existing rail vehicles with the latest traction technologies - improving performance, reliability, and energy efficiency. Together with our certified partners, we deliver tailored solutions to ensure the optimal fit for each customer's specific needs.

Battery Chargers

ABB's ultra-compact and lightweight battery charger sets a new benchmark in railway applications, combining Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology with unmatched integration flexibility.

“We worked closely together with ABB, not only to develop the traction chain solution but also to ensure it would fit into the locomotives. ABB is a reliable partner, and we were pleased with the smooth way that our two companies cooperated. We are already discussing new opportunities for collaboration.”

Railway Vehicles Project Team of Müller Technologie AG