Rolls-Royce and Porterbrook agreement will drive rail decarbonisation

Rolls-Royce is teaming up with Porterbrook to identify and develop technological innovations to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality across the rail network. The two companies, who have signed a memorandum of understanding, will investigate the potential for the use of synthetic and net zero fuels, including hydrogen, both in fuel cells and internal combustion engines. Building on their recent success of jointly introducing hybrid battery-diesel railcars into passenger service, the two companies will also explore the potential for advanced hybridisation. The relationship also includes considering the role of…

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New tech to tackle leaves on the line and de-ice platforms set to revolutionise British rail travel

Automatic de-icing concrete on platforms and a rapid seat reservation-swapping service could soon make journeys easier by banishing slippery surfaces in winter and guaranteeing passengers a seat, UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced, following a national competition to make the railways cleaner, greener and more passenger-friendly. The Department for Transport, in partnership with Innovate UK, has awarded 25 pioneering projects a share of £9.4 million in the 2020 First of a Kind (FOAK) competition, which encourages innovation in the rail industry. Inventors have come forward with a host of…

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