Forsee Power, which specializes in innovative and sustainable battery systems for electromobility, and Wabtec Corporation, one of the leading providers of equipment and value-added services for freight and transit rail operations, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This partnership aims at setting up an engineering collaboration that will enable the integration of Forsee Power’s state-of-the-art battery systems in Wabtec’s range of battery-electric locomotives.
Decarbonizing Heavy Rail Infrastructure Through Innovation
The partnership joins two heavyweights in industrial transport electrification. As a recognized pioneer in freight locomotive manufacturing, Wabtec made history in 2021 by unveiling the world’s first heavy-haul battery-electric freight locomotive, establishing a baseline for low-carbon rail freight networks.
By formalizing this collaboration, the companies aim to accelerate the optimization of Forsee Power’s specialized PULSE PLUS RAIL energy storage systems for heavy locomotive duties. The joint engineering program focuses on maximizing regenerative braking energy capture, improving operational reliability, and optimizing the total cost of ownership (TCO) for rail operators transitioning away from traditional diesel-electric propulsion.
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Buy America Compliance and Specialized LTO Engineering
To support the domestic modernization of North American rail infrastructure, Forsee Power provides a localized manufacturing footprint out of its production facility in Columbus, Ohio, ensuring full compliance with Buy America Act procurement regulations. This regional presence is backed by dedicated rail research and development (R&D) centers and global field-engineering aftersales capabilities.
The PULSE PLUS RAIL system features unique electro-chemical and structural specifications engineered to withstand the extreme mechanical stresses of heavy rail logistics:
Extraordinary Durability: Featuring the latest generation of Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) batteries from Toshiba, the battery system ensures maximum endurance with a life span of up to 20 years under constant rapid cycling operation.
Super High Voltage Tolerance: The battery technology is able to handle super high power output for any voltages up to 1,500VDC, which permits direct interfacing with the latest generation of megawatt scale locomotive propulsion systems.
State-of-the-Art Active Liquid Temperature Control System: Using an advanced liquid cooling/heat system, optimum temperature conditions are ensured inside the battery pack regardless of severe outside climatic changes or heavy-duty operation.
Faster Recharging Capabilities: Enables fast battery recharging with high currents either at freight terminals or wayside charging stations.
Rigorous Railway Safety and Safety Lifecycle Certification
Engineered from the ground up to prevent thermal runaway and simplify field upkeep, the system features a modular layout that allows technicians to quickly access electronic and electromechanical components. The sub-assemblies incorporate comprehensive Lockout-Tagout (LOTO) mechanisms, ensuring full physical electrical isolation to protect technicians during routine maintenance procedures.
The PULSE PLUS RAIL meets the toughest standards in railway safety, construction, and environment, such as IEC 62928, IEC 62619, IEC 62620, and EN 50126. Moreover, the rail system also passes the following standards: IEC 61373 (shocks & vibrations), EN 45545 (fire protection in railway vehicles), IEC 60077 (electrical installations in railway vehicles), UN 38.3 (transportation), and welding & construction by EN 15085 and EN 17460.