After the runaway success with hybrid cars, Japan is bringing the world’s first environment-friendly hybrid train. The train named Kiha E200, developed by East Japan Railway Co. is the latest entrant in the battle against global warming and is scheduled to debut on the Koumi Line in central Japan on July 31, 2007.
It’s a two-train car that is powered by a diesel engine and electric batteries. Also, there is lithium iron battery installed on the train’s roof that has a capacity equal to the batteries of 3,000-4,000 regular mobile phones. The batteries of the train are charged when the train slows down.
The train has 46 seats and can hold 117 people including standees. Compared to conventional trains, the new technology will help reducing emissions of nitrogen oxide and particulate matter by up to 60 percent. The fuel consumption is cut by up to 20 percent.
In addition to the hybrid train, the Railway Technical Research Institute of Tokyo plans to develop a hybrid-type next-generation streetcar or light rail transit (LRT) by next year.
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