Saft rail battery systems will keep the power on for Bombardier’s new Stansted Express Electrostar trains

This contract for Bombardier Transportation builds on the success of the identical Saft battery systems installed on the Class 378 Electrostars currently operating on London’s overground routes. Bombardier Transportation’s Derby factory in the UK is delivering a total of 30 four-car Class 379 trainsets. Saft has supplied a total of 60 battery systems to Bombardier Transportation as turnkey, installation-ready, packages, assembled in rafts complete with control equipment and interfaces to communicate with the train systems. Two 96 V battery systems, each comprising 74 of Saft’s specialized nickel-based MATRICS MRX90 cells, with a nominal capacity of 90 Ah, are installed below the floor of each trainset. In the event of an interruption to the main overhead catenary supply, the Saft battery systems will power auxiliary services, such as raising the pantograph as well as maintaining the continuity of lighting, air conditioning, door operation and communication systems. The level of autonomy provided by the batteries will vary according to the specific function: 90 minutes for main lighting; 60 minutes for standby lighting, traction and CCTV systems; 180 minutes for ‘non-switched’ functions such as door opening and closing.