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© Luc Levert

UK: Double family on the rise

Train 2K82 Southport – Alderley Edge, operated by Norton’s dual-mode multiple unit 769 458 (X-319 458), here in electric mode, arrives Stockport station at 08:51.

By: Luke Levert

As part of the UK’s decarbonisation programme, all diesel-only engine vehicles must be withdrawn from service by 2040. Existing equipment meets this requirement as a result of new dual-mode engines or engine modifications, in addition to acquiring battery- or hydrogen-powered equipment.

Zero emissions by 2050

As part of the decarbonisation plan for rail transport, the British Ministry of Transport asked operators in 2018 to not run exclusively on diesel locomotives on the British network by 2040. The Scottish Government has reduced this deadline to 2035 for Scotland. In June 2019, the British government set a target of zero emissions for rail transport by 2050. With a major plan to electrify the British network, less than 50% of the lines are currently electrified by catenary at 25 kV 50 Hz or by third rail (3R) at 750 V direct current (dc), the use of dual-mode vehicles makes it possible to meet this requirement. With fleet renewals of electric railcars used by some operators, series are available for conversion to dual-mode, battery or hydrogen.