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The new train contributes to Network Rail’s commitment to reduce its environmental impact, improve sustainability and reduce the cost of running the railway by 20 per cent over the next five years. It could ultimately lead to a fleet of battery-powered trains running on Britain’s rail network which are quieter and more efficient than diesel-powered trains, making them better for passengers and the environment. Network Rail and its industry partners – including Bombardier, Abellio Greater Anglia, FutureRailway and the Rail Executive arm of the Department for Transport (which is co-funding the project) – recognise the potential for battery-powered trains to bridge gaps between electrified parts of the network and to run on branch lines where it would be too expensive to install overhead electrification.

The first longer 12-carriage train is tested at Leagrave station.

Network Rail's preliminary results, 2009/10

Google Street View at Liverpool Street Station

RAB

Engineers putting the approach into practice