The three companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to pursue the demonstration project to test the feasibility of hydrogen-powered locomotives.
An anticipated rebound in volumes as supply chain kinks smooth out will be a theme in 2022, while customer-friendly technological applications will drive rail technology long term, Class I rail CEOs said in recent conferences.
Rail-related provisions in the newly signed infrastructure bill span from federal grants to support infrastructure projects to studying the impacts of positive train control and train lengths.
Rail technology company Intramotev is developing hardware and software to enable battery-powered railcars to make short-haul movements without a locomotive.
The three have signed agreements committing to work together on developing advanced locomotive power technologies.
Two groups announced this month their separate efforts to increase supply chain visibility. One technology tool focuses on locating railcars and another aims to forecast volumes at the Port of Los Angeles.
Hitachi ABB Power Systems Vice President Daniel Simounet talks about where opportunities might already exist to electrify freight rail — provided that the railroads, government and utilities are willing to collaborate together.
CSX will be using Wabtec’s technology aimed at reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency for locomotives.
The technology upgrades at 12 points of entry along the borders of Canada and Mexico will enable U.S. Customs and Border Protection to inspect rail cargo more quickly and securely, according to CBP.
Executives with wireless network provider Ondas Networks describe how private telecommunications networks benefit the Class I railroads as well as other transportation modes.
