Chiltern Railways’ HybridFlex Class 168 entered service on 10 February, operating between London Marylebone and Aylesbury.
The retrofit of a self-charging hybrid system to No 168329 has been developed in partnership with Porterbrook and Rolls-Royce. Claimed benefits include a reduction of 25% in fuel usage as well as reduced emissions and air pollution and a significant reduction in noise. It is also hoped the battery will offer improved performance compared with a straight DMU. The unit is claimed to be the first 100mph battery-diesel hybrid train to operate on the UK rail network.
Initially the HybridFlex unit is working between London Marylebone and Aylesbury. This route has been chosen because of the frequent stops, meaning it will be both the toughest testing ground but also the route on which the technology will offer the greatest benefits. In future the set will also work on services to Oxford, with further routes possible as more drivers undergo a short training course.
Battery power at stations
The technology i…
