10 locomotives + 5 EMUs! Myanmar will purchase from CRRC Dalian!

Recently, Myanmar Railway announced an important train modernization plan, aiming to improve the environmental performance and operational efficiency of the train system. According to the plan, the Regional Branch Express (RBE) will be fully upgraded to Battery Electric Multiple Unit (BEMU), which will become one of the focuses of this transformation. The KIHA40 and DF.1600 locomotives will be the first to usher in the transformation and rejuvenate themselves. In addition, the company plans to purchase 10 electric locomotives and five electric multiple units from CRRC Dalian to supplement capacity.

RBE trains mainly serve regional feeder railways and undertake short and medium-distance commuting tasks. As many regional lines are not yet fully electrified, RBE trains are generally powered by internal combustion power. However, with the improvement of environmental protection requirements and strict carbon emission targets, traditional internal combustion trains are facing the challenge of upgrading.

The BEMU train is a battery-powered EMU that runs on battery power in the non-electrified railway section and can be charged via catenary in the electrified section. The advantages of BEMU trains include:

Environmental performance: Completely eliminate the internal combustion engine, greatly reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution.

Flexible and adaptable: Seamlessly switch between electrified and non-electrified railways to adapt to a variety of operational scenarios.

Reduced maintenance costs: The modular design of the battery makes replacement and repair easier and more efficient.

The KIHA40 train is a single or double-car diesel powered train widely used in Japan, which has been in operation since the 70s of the 20th century and is known for its reliability and durability. However, due to the use of conventional internal combustion engines, such trains have gradually become difficult to meet the current environmental and economic needs.

The revamped KIHA40 trains will be upgraded to BEMU trains, with advanced battery energy storage technology and high-efficiency electric motors:

New battery technology: High-density lithium batteries or solid-state batteries are used to significantly increase battery life and support longer distances on a single charge.

Lower maintenance requirements: The electric drive system has fewer wear parts, which saves maintenance costs compared to conventional combustion engines.

Improved comfort: The upgraded train will be quieter and smoother, providing passengers with a better ride experience.

The DF.1600 locomotive is a classic diesel locomotive, which is mainly used for traction tasks on freight and passenger lines. In order to adapt to the future development trend of green railways, the locomotive will be converted into a battery-electric locomotive. This renovation plan includes:

New powertrain: The internal combustion engine is replaced by a high-capacity battery pack, which is lighter in weight but provides more traction.

Intelligent energy management: Through an efficient energy recovery system, the train converts kinetic energy into electrical energy storage when braking, further improving energy utilization.

Improved operational efficiency: Battery-electric locomotives will be able to adapt more flexibly to the needs of different lines, reducing fuel dependence and reducing operating costs.

To further improve operational efficiency, the company plans to purchase 10 electric locomotives and five electric multiple units from CRRC Dalian. The trains will feature state-of-the-art traction and control technology, with the following features:

High-speed and efficient: Electric EMUs can support higher operating speeds and maximize energy utilization.

Intelligent system: The on-board control system can monitor the train operation status in real time to optimize traction distribution and energy use.

Green and energy-saving: The electric locomotive is completely emission-free during operation, which meets the requirements of global green transportation development.