How bi-mode trains solve the uncertainty of railway electrification
In short: As nations debate the cost of electrifying rail networks, the Hitachi Class 802 offers a pragmatic compromise. These bi-mode units switch between overhead electric wires and diesel generators, ensuring high-speed service even when infrastructure remains incomplete or uncertain.
The Hitachi Class 802, part of the AT300 product family, is designed to bridge the gap between fully electric and diesel-only rail travel. While they function as electric trains wherever possible, they are equipped with diesel generator units to handle non-electrified stretches. This bi-mode capability is particularly vital for routes like the Great Western Main Line, where electrification only extends as far as Cardiff Central, leaving the sections beyond to rely on diesel traction.
The Class 802 is a more robust evolution of the Class 800. To handle steeper gradients and longer periods of non-electric operation, the 802 features larger fuel tanks and higher-output engines. Specifically, each engine provides 700 kW (940 hp), compared to the 560 kW (750 hp) found in the original Class 800 units used by Great Western Railway. This increased power helps manage the demands of lengthy, unelectrified stretches.
The fleet is currently undergoing a technological shift toward 'tri-mode' operation. In December 2020, Hitachi and the Eversholt Rail Group announced plans to replace one under-floor diesel engine on 22 five-car 802/0 units with a battery. This conversion aims to reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% while lowering noise and pollution. Trials of this battery technology have already been undertaken by both Great Western Railway and TransPennine Express, with one unit being converted by Turntide Technologies in May 2024.
While highly versatile, the fleet has faced challenges. In 2021, many services were disrupted due to cracks caused by fatigue and stress corrosion in the 800 and 802 series. Additionally, some Nova 1 units operated under diesel power on electrified sections of the East Coast Main Line due to insufficient power supplies, a limitation that infrastructure upgrades are expected to address.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: British Rail Class 802
- Also: Wikidata — British Rail Class 802 · CC0
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