Alstom plans to manufacture large batteries for train systems at its Maneja facility in Gujarat, aiming to expand its exports from India and enhance its green energy portfolio.
France-headquartered Alstom, a railway infrastructure manufacturer, plans to produce large lithium-ion batteries for railway traction components in India within the next year. This initiative follows extensive technology testing such as Automatic Train Operation and the European Train Control System across several European countries.
Production will be localised at Alstom’s Maneja facility in Gujarat, which already manufactures rail components. These initiatives and substantial investments in battery technology and maintenance solutions aim to enhance train efficiency and support the ‘Make in India’ initiative, contributing to the country’s technological advancement and self-reliance in railway infrastructure.
This move to gradually develop indigenous battery cells in India, reinforcing local manufacturing capabilities, aligns with the company’s strategy to expand its exports from India and boost its revenue to over 1 billion euros.
These advanced batteries are designed to power various railway systems, including Vande Bharat trains and metro rail networks. This development signifies a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of India’s railway infrastructure.
With its high energy density and rapid charging capabilities, the new battery technology can supply auxiliary power to diesel and electric railway powertrains in situations like power supply failure. These batteries can supply auxiliary power to diesel and electric railway powertrains in situations like power supply failure to get a train over a patch that is not electrified or even to get it into a maintenance shed. Battery-powered trains are energy-efficient and help in reducing carbon emissions.
