On Thursday at Barrow Hill roundhouse near Chesterfield, Positive Traction showcased their new Class 08 shunting locomotive which has been converted from diesel to battery electric power, making it free from carbon, NOx and particulate emissions. The re-engineered locomotive (08308) has several other improvements and refinements, updating an English Electric design that dates back to 1934.

The beauty of converting an 08 compared to building a completely new design is that the 08 has ‘Grandfather rights’ so doesn’t need to go through a time-consuming acceptance procedure as it’s ‘simply’ a re-engined existing design, although that description doesn’t really do this locomotive justice.

The old English Electric diesel engine’s been replaced with Lithium-Ferro-Phosphate (LFP) 88kwh batteries supplied by Lithion Battery Inc. Up to six ‘plug in’ batteries can be fitted under the new, lower body which has replaced the fuel tank, engine and radiator assembly. The batteries and control equipment module are designed to be able to be changed in minutes using a forklift truck.

The existing cab and control desk has been retained although visibility has been improved by fitting extra windows front and back. The compensate for the 19 tonnes of weight removed 10 and 20mm thick steel plates have been fitted above the frames. The cab’s also been enhanced with double-glazing, roof-mounted heating, ventilation and an HVAC unit.

Other improvements include standard BMAC light clusters, regenerative braking and CCTV whilst the connecting rod bearings have been replaced with oil-free Vesconite units made in South Africa. These bearings reduce maintenance and prevent oil loss-making the shunter an attractive proposition in depots and lines where pollution is a concern.

A further improvement is that the 08e prototype is rated at 450hp, 50hp higher than a conventional 08. Tractive effort has been increased from 35,000lbf to 45,000lbf (200kn) the same as a Class 33 locomotive.

Whilst only a prototype the potential of these conversions is clear. UK railways (mainline, industrial and preserved) still rely on the 08 for many duties. Converting these to 08e would make a real difference to yards and railways around the country, continuing the quest to cut carbon emissions and pollution.

Here’s a selection of pictures from the day.

And finally, here’s a video of the 08e in action. The loco still has its EE506 traction motors – hence the traditional sounds – even if there’s no longer the burble from the EE 6KT engine!

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