#greenford

Great Western #Railway has won two top honours at the Rail #Business Awards, recognising innovation and safety. The operator took Innovation of the Year for a record 200.5-mile battery train journey – the longest on a single charge – independently validated by the Railway Performance Society. Trials on the #Greenford branch line also showed fast-charging technology costing 60% less than conventional electrification, supporting lower-carbon regional services. GWR also won Safety & Security Excellence for its Resilient Futures: Bridgwater Safeguarding Response, which cut youth antisocial behaviour by 77%. Working with more than 20 partners, including British Transport Police and Railway Children, the scheme focused on safeguarding, staff training and community initiatives. GWR was highly commended for #accessibility improvements. https://news.gwr.com/news/great-western-railway-scoops-top-awards-at-industry-leading-rail-business-awards

Great Western #Railway (GWR) has introduced the UK’s first battery-only passenger train into service, with the Class 230 entering operation on the #Greenford branch line on Saturday 31 January. The train replaced a diesel unit on the 05:30 service from West Ealing following 22 months of trials of fast-charge technology. Last year it set a world record by travelling 200.5 miles on a single charge. GWR said the trial shows battery trains can provide a reliable alternative where electrification is not feasible, supporting plans to replace ageing diesel fleets. Network Rail said the project marks an important step towards lower-emission rail #travel. The train will initially run on Saturdays as further performance data is gathered. https://news.gwr.com/news/great-western-railway-introduces-record-breaking-battery-train-into-passenger-service-1