Multi-criteria evaluation method for operating battery electric railcars

Abstract

Recently, an increasing number of battery electric railway vehicles are being put into service. The operational characteristics of hybrid-powered vehicles are different from diesel propulsion, which is a challenge for railway companies. This paper introduces a multi-criteria evaluation method to facilitate the harmonization of various parameters related to hybrid vehicles and the evaluation of railway lines based on the attributes of new types of railcars. The length of the non-electrified sections, battery capacity, condition of railway tracks, number of operated railcars, and passenger traffic volume were identified as the main attributes that influence the applicability of battery electric railcars. It was found that without charging station deployment, railway lines electrified in 40-60% are the most suitable for battery electric railcar operation.