ÖBB is poised to transform passenger experience with intelligent and highly advanced HVAC systems in its new FLIRT Akku battery-electric trains. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

ÖBB adopts modern HVAC systems for new battery trains
Source, photo: www.railwaypro.com

Next-Generation Battery Trains with Advanced HVAC Systems

The new diesel trains will enter service to replace older DMUs and will provide improved efficiency and sustainability to non-electrified lines in Austria.

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Every three-car FLIRT Akku carries 160 passengers – bringing modern comfort to regional lines like the Kamptalbahn in Lower Austria. The propane-powered climate control units will begin being delivered in summer 2025 and the full operation will be in 2028.

Propane Technology: A Sustainable Cooling Solution 150 gallons of gasoline every year.o CITY OF ROUND RO- INE ACADEMY Fourth-grade students at the Round Rock International Academy (RRIA) visited the City of Round Rock on April 9 for their annual field trip.

The propane refrigeration system is based on the natural refrigerant R290 which has a very low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 3. This means minimal environmental influence but maximum cooling power and efficiency on the part of driver and passenger.

The units are also set up to be easy to maintain and run safely by Liebherr. Engineers adapted the technology to refrigerant flammability in creating the technology available today — which is a reliable, long-lasting system with reduced maintenance and less power use.

Supporting ÖBB’s Green Transition

This project is a part of ÖBB’s long-term strategy of decreasing dependence on diesel and increasing the comfort of passengers on board.

The battery electric rail vehicles with propane systems will run on lines without continuous electrification, delivering operational flexibility and substantial environmental advantages.

Hence the process of adopting state-of-the-art climate technology reflects a larger trend in Austria toward environmentally responsible transport systems that use energy efficiently.

Source, photo: www.railwaypro.com

Why do ÖBB’s new battery trains use HVAC systems?

The climate control systems provide efficient temperature management and work to create a comfortable environment for passengers while helping ÖBB move towards a sustainable and greener way of keeping the rail system running.

What sort of makes propane a better choice for train cooling?

Propane (R290) is green gas, very environmentally friendly, with zero Ozone Depletion Potential, very low Global Warming Potential. It provides excellent cooling and consumes less energy than that required by traditional refrigerant blends thus well-aligned for eco-friendly solutions of mobility.

When will the first of the new FLIRT Akku battery trains be brought into service?

The first trains are to be put into use in 2028, and deliveries of the advanced climate control equipment will start in summer 2025.

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