To reduce fuel consumption during operations with shunting locomotives, Deutsche Bahn relies on modern hybrid technology. In addition to a diesel engine, the locomotives are equipped with a battery. When under less load, they can run entirely on electricity. When more power is required, the diesel engine assists and simultaneously acts as a generator to recharge the battery. Especially in shunting operations with frequent starts and stops, the hybrid drive offers significant advantages. The environmentally friendly battery drive can often be used, while the diesel engine only comes into play when higher energy demand arises.
H3 Hybrid shunting locomotive in service
Alstom’s first “Prima-H3” hybrid locomotives are in service with DB Regio Bayern in Nuremberg and Munich. Prima-H3 switching locomotives are also supporting shunting operations in the DB Fernverkehr fleet at the Basel and Berlin-Rummelsburg locations. Compared to conventional, purely diesel-powered switching locomotives, the H3 hybrid locomotives consume only about half as much fuel in actual operation. In addition, the operating noise of the diesel engine is eliminated when the locomotive runs on battery power.
Sustainable shunting for freight
DB Cargo’s shunting fleet is also becoming more modern and climate-friendly thanks to new hybrid locomotives from Vossloh Locomotives and Toshiba. Both locomotive types are equipped with a powerful, innovative battery system that can also be charged via an external renewable power supply. This makes climate-friendly shunting possible even for heavy loads and at low speeds. In a first step, DB Cargo intends to deploy 150 climate-friendly hybrid shunting locomotives. The first vehicles are scheduled to enter service starting in 2027.
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