Hybrid Propulsion Systems for Rail and Emerging Transit ‎Vehicles: Challenges and Opportunities

  • Authors

    • Nisha Milind Shrirao Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Kalinga University, Raipur, India
    • Shital Kewte Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Kalinga University, Raipur, India
    https://doi.org/10.14419/n2t05e03

    Received date: May 2, 2025

    Accepted date: May 27, 2025

    Published date: July 8, 2025

  • Hybrid Propulsion; Sustainable Transportation; Energy Efficiency; Emissions Reduction; Transit Infrastructure

  • Abstract

    The adoption of hybrid propulsion systems in rail and emerging transit vehicles holds significant promise for improving the sustainability ‎and efficiency of public transportation. Considering increasing global pressure for decreasing carbon footprint and raising energy density, ‎hybrid technologies can be used as an efficient combination of electric motors and internal combustion engines. This integration enables the ‎vehicles to run seamlessly in different infrastructure settings, relying on electricity in the electrified parts and fossil fuels for longer or non-electrified parts. Other advantages analyzed include decreased fuel consumption, emission outputs, and improved flexibility of hybrids ‎, meaning that such systems are valuable to transit authorities seeking to conform to environmental benchmarks. However, the actual ‎deployment of these systems presents issues such as high capital costs, infrastructure requirements, as well as technical integration issues in ‎integrating new systems on existing fleets. Further, there are constraints in battery technology, and the need for intelligent and compact ‎energy management systems forms a notable challenge. Nevertheless, hybrid propulsion provides a way to design less dependent on fossil ‎fuels transport solutions that would require less maintenance and provide better mileage. This paper explores these challenges and ‎opportunities, providing insights into the future development of hybrid propulsion as a sustainable solution for rail and transit systems.

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  • How to Cite

    Shrirao , N. M. ., & Kewte , S. . (2025). Hybrid Propulsion Systems for Rail and Emerging Transit ‎Vehicles: Challenges and Opportunities. International Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, 14(SI-1), 38-41. https://doi.org/10.14419/n2t05e03