How does Lightweight Design affect Traction Energy Consumption of Railway Vehicles?

Kurzfassung

Energy consumption of rolling stock is becoming more and more important for manufacturers and operators of railway vehicles. One simple measure to improve energy efficiency is the reduction of vehicle weight by utilizing lightweight design in the construction of railway vehicles. In this paper the effects of weight reduction on energy consumption are analyzed for different railway vehicle classes and operational scenarios. Three generic vehicles are defined, each representing a typical vehicle class. In conclusion, we derive from the calculated energy savings the costs that may arise for eliminating 1 kg of vehicle mass so these costs can be amortized through energy savings over the lifetime of the vehicle.