Siemens Mobility has unveiled the next-generation Charger B+AC passenger locomotive, North America’s first battery-electric passenger locomotive built entirely in the United States.
This model, designed specifically for the North American market, expands the company’s portfolio of alternative propulsion solutions. This already includes battery electric, hydrogen, and hybrid trains, such as the Mireo Plus B, Mireo Plus H, and Vectron locomotives with battery modules.
The Charger B+AC is a version of the locomotive already in service in the USA. It eliminates the diesel generator and replaces it with a modular battery system and a pantograph, allowing for operation in both catenary and battery modes in areas without electrification.
The locomotive can reach speeds of up to 125 mph (ca. 201 km/h) under catenary and travel up to 100 miles (ca. 161 km) on battery power alone, depending on the train configuration and route.
Additionally, it meets Buy America requirements and offers flexible charging options, including catenary, plug-in, and regenerative braking.
The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will be the first customer. It has purchased 13 locomotives of this model for the Metro-North Railroad.