Market analysis of alternative drives in German local rail passenger transport: Study for NOW

On behalf of NOW GmbH, the market potential of alternative drives in German local rail passenger transport (SPNV) was analysed.

As an alternative to diesel multiple units (DMU), the potential of battery overhead line hybrid multiple units (BEMU) and fuel cell hybrid multiple units (FCEMU) is described and the available vehicle and infrastructure concepts are characterised. Finally, the market potential of BEMU and FCEMU is analysed for all competitive regional rail networks in which DMUs are currently used.

Contents

  • Development of the vehicle market with hybrid drives in selected European countries
  • Analysis of diesel vehicles in Germany
  • Route characteristics and operating performance of regional rail transport in Germany
  • Vehicle drive concepts (BEMU and FCEMU) and accompanying technology developments
  • Recharging and refuelling concepts for alternative drives
  • Investment costs for vehicles and CO2 emissions
  • Post-electrification options for specific routes using simulation
  • Estimate of new vehicle requirements for BEMU and FCEMU up to 2038 for all regional rail transport licences and resulting additional costs and funding requirements

Results

The study is not public; core results of the study have been summarised in a public brochure. Additional publications are planned in the coming months.

Client

NOW GmbH (Nationale Organisation Wasserstoff- und Brennstoffzellentechnologie)

Project duration

12/2018 - 12/2019

Contact

Dr.-Ing. Stephan Schmid

Head of Research Area
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Vehicle Concepts
Vehicle Systems and Technology Assessment
Pfaffenwaldring 38-40, 70569 Stuttgart