European Railroad Discussion > Innotrans 2012 (15), Hybrid Desiro

Hybrids were the novelty of the Innotrans 2012, so it was not surprising to find Siemens and MTU teaming up on creation on a German class 642 diesel-hybrid Desiro. This DHMU conserves energy by feeding braking energy back to batteries located on the unit roof. It is possible to use the train purely on electric power. The continuous power of hybrid Desiro is as low as 200 kW / 268 hp x 2, but I suppose this vehicle will not be used on the demanding stretches of track. The development has been slightly subsidized also by the state of Germany.

The unit 129 of Baureihe 642 is currently running tests and being prepared for use at Maintalbahn. In 2014 the first 16 similar production line units should be at use Erzgebirgsbahn in Germany.

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A closer look at MTU power pack and the bogies.

Power packs: http://www.mtu-online.com/mtu-northamerica/products/engine-program/diesel-engines-for-rail-traction/powerpack-for-railcars/

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While the other end of the train had turned green, the other was still of traditional reddish color.

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