Positive Traction has been conducting comprehensive trials and testing on its 08e prototype at Barrow Hill Roundhouse Railway Centre and its research facility in Chesterfield for the past eight months.
The 08e maintains familiar driving controls for ease of driver conversion, while the cab environment has seen improvements, offering better visibility both forward and reverse. Enhancements include HVAC, vigilance systems, speed limiting, automatic directional lighting, live diagnostics, and other updates.
One of the key elements of the new 08e shunter is its conversion to battery power. The shunter 08308, dating back to the 1950s and previously in service for Caledonian Sleeper at Inverness, was chosen for re-engineering despite its dormant state and mechanical issues. The conversion required new equipment, including a dryer compressor and a set of BMAC lights.
Certain parts of the vehicle, such as rod bearings and air receivers, were overhauled. The rear axle bearing was also rejuvenated. Central to the battery conversion are the PT Powerpod™ and PT Powertrain™, with the former containing battery cells and the latter acting as the control center for traction control, battery status monitoring, driver interface, diagnostics, and data control.
The redesigned body shape of the 08e accommodates the new systems, featuring a lower bonnet that enhances visibility and safety. The 08e was then painted and dressed in bespoke livery, completing its transformation.
The prototype 08e has begun its trials and testing phase at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, with plans to present it to industry professionals before its delivery to the first customer for further testing and acceptance. Positive Traction is looking ahead to the potential of battery-powered trains.
Network Rail is sponsoring a project to assess whether 'intelligent' wagons can enhance preventative maintenance and safety for freight trains, particularly those carrying hazardous materials like oil and chemicals. A set of six modified JNA bogie box wagons has been tested at Barrow Hill, equipped with sensors on the bogies, axle ends, and body, providing constant updates to a data hub. Power is supplied from a module on the 08e locomotive via a three-wire jumper cable, with data transmitted using a Powerline communications solution.
