UK's first rapid-charging battery train enters passenger service on London branch line
By Eve
Great Western Railway will begin Saturday passenger services with a battery-powered train on the 2.5 mile Greenford branch line in west London, following trials since May 2024. The converted former London Underground train recharges in four minutes at West Ealing station and set a world record of 200.5 miles on a single charge in August 2024. GWR reported in July 2024 that battery charging infrastructure costs less than full electrification, supporting the rail industry's 2040 target to phase out diesel-only trains.
Why it matters
The commercial deployment demonstrates a proven alternative to overhead electrification for short branch lines, offering procurement teams a lower-cost pathway to decarbonise non-electrified routes. The four-minute turnaround charging model and cost advantage over catenary systems may inform infrastructure planning for similar rail segments across the UK and Europe.
Source
- Original title
- “UK’s first rapid-charging battery train to carry London passengers this weekend”
- Published
- 30 January 2026
- Updated
- 18 July 2026
In this story
- Topic
- Electric Vehicles
- Place
- United Kingdom
- Tag
- My London
Related news
KGM Torres EVX qualifies for £1,500 UK Electric Car Grant, cutting price to £35,495
The all-electric KGM Torres EVX now benefits from the UK Government's £1,500 Electric Car Grant, reducing its starting price to £35,495. The South Korean SUV features a 73.4kWh BYD battery with 287 mile range and 130kW fast charging, achieving 10% to 80% charge in 28 minutes. KGM's Musso EV pick-up also qualifies for the £5,000 Plug-in Van Grant, bringing its price to £39,995 and making it the UK's most affordable electric pick-up compared to rivals priced from £57,845.
Why it matters
The grant eligibility makes KGM's EVs significantly more competitive in UK fleet and retail markets, potentially driving demand for charging infrastructure at dealerships and workplaces. The Musso EV's price advantage over established pick-up rivals could accelerate commercial fleet electrification and associated depot charging requirements.
Citroen launches OUTDOOR trim for e-C3 and e-C3 Aircross electric models
Citroen has introduced a new OUTDOOR trim level for its C3 family, including the e-C3 and e-C3 Aircross electric vehicles. The OUTDOOR variant sits above the existing MAX trim as the top specification, featuring rugged styling with new front and rear bumpers, grey protective elements, and LED fog lights on the Aircross models. The trim targets customers seeking adventure oriented design while maintaining the C3 range's comfort and practicality.
Why it matters
This product update is not directly relevant to EV charging procurement or infrastructure development, as it concerns vehicle styling and trim levels rather than charging capabilities or partnerships.
Chery offers RM18,000 discount on Tiggo 9 and extended 10 year battery warranty on Tiggo 8 PHEV at Malaysia auto expo
Chery is offering an RM18,000 rebate on its Tiggo 9 SUV, reducing the price to RM179,800, and promoting its Tiggo 8 PHEV at RM159,800 with an extended 10 year battery warranty at the paultan.org Auto Car Expo 2026 in Malaysia, running from 31 October to 1 November. The Tiggo 8 PHEV features a 275 PS hybrid system with 90 km electric only range and 1,200 km combined range. The expo will feature over 20 automotive brands including Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Proton eMas, and Zeekr.
Why it matters
The extended 10 year battery warranty on the Tiggo 8 PHEV signals growing manufacturer confidence in PHEV durability, potentially influencing fleet procurement decisions in Malaysia. The presence of multiple EV and PHEV brands at a major consumer expo reflects accelerating electrification in the Southeast Asian market.