France: First Hybrid Train - Bibi Hits Tracks
Dec 7th, 2007, 10:27 AM
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France: First Hybrid Train - Bibi Hits Tracks
France has seen several seminal developments of europe's modern trains, most notably the high-speed TGVs that not only lace France but run in several other European countries as well.
But the newest and perhaps as revolutionary train to hit the tracks is called by Bombardier, the maker, the world's first hybird train, which is called <BIBI> for its Bi-mode and Bi-courant technologies.
It's also being called the Train Vert because of its environmentally friendlier nature.
The main aspects:
can switch easily from diesel power to electric power without stopping, allowing more direct trains between stations on non-electrified lines and those that are.
and it also can utilize France's two different electric-rail tension lines thanks to a special transformer on the rooftop - on 25,000 volts and well as 1,500 volt lines.
Thus, except for SNCF's three narrow-gauge sidelines the train can go on any rail line in France.
also emits 20% less CO2 than any other regional train in France
the first train rolled out of Gare de l'Est Oct 9, heading for Troyes.
A total of 144 train sets have been ordered by France's regional train lines so travel on regional trains promises to be quicker and greener.
But the newest and perhaps as revolutionary train to hit the tracks is called by Bombardier, the maker, the world's first hybird train, which is called <BIBI> for its Bi-mode and Bi-courant technologies.
It's also being called the Train Vert because of its environmentally friendlier nature.
The main aspects:
can switch easily from diesel power to electric power without stopping, allowing more direct trains between stations on non-electrified lines and those that are.
and it also can utilize France's two different electric-rail tension lines thanks to a special transformer on the rooftop - on 25,000 volts and well as 1,500 volt lines.
Thus, except for SNCF's three narrow-gauge sidelines the train can go on any rail line in France.
also emits 20% less CO2 than any other regional train in France
the first train rolled out of Gare de l'Est Oct 9, heading for Troyes.
A total of 144 train sets have been ordered by France's regional train lines so travel on regional trains promises to be quicker and greener.
Dec 7th, 2007, 11:43 AM
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Of course, the route from Paris-Est to Basel is the last non electrified long distance train line in France. It is currently undergoing electrification. I suppose that these new trains will mostly be used on minor transversal lines.
Dec 10th, 2007, 07:24 AM
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Yes - good example and the other significant one is St Pierre-des-Corps to Lyon where diesel locos go to Vierzon then need to change locos to go on newly electrified section from there.
I'm curious as to why France still has significant lines without electric power - few countries in europe seem to have, except IME Germany and Holland.
I'm curious as to why France still has significant lines without electric power - few countries in europe seem to have, except IME Germany and Holland.
Dec 10th, 2007, 07:45 AM
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There has been no electrification on Britain's railways since they were privatised. Lines from London to Bristol, Cardiff, Nottingham and many other cities have diesel trains and will do so for the foreseeable future because there are no plans to electrify the lines.
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