Alstom launches SRS, an innovative ground-based static charging system for both trams and electrical buses. During the exhibition, Alstom also announced the extension of the APS's (ground-level power supplier) application to hybrid trucks.
SRS is based on the technology and safety principles of the proven Alstom APS solution used by Citadis trams. Whereas APS supplies power to the tram while it is still running, SRS charges the tram when stopped at stations in less than 20 seconds. Electrical power comes from compact power supply cabinets that are smoothly and easily integrated into stations. Collector shoes (contact blocks), fitted under the tram, make contact with the conductor rail, providing electric traction power to the tram. Supercapacitors installed on the roof of the tram store energy via a ground-based conductive rail which provides traction power to the vehicle through the collector shoes.
SRS is also designed to address the road market by supplying power to electrical buses through ground-based charging slots at stations. It can be used by a large range of electrical buses.
Alstom is also extending the use of its APS solution to hybrid trucks. This was developed as a collaborative project, called 'Electrical Road Systems', between Alstom and Volvo. The research conducted by the two companies involves a method based on two power lines built into the surface of the road. This allows supplying electricity to trucks as they drive along the road via a current collector located on the vehicle. The technology has been undergoing tests since 2012. The tests will continue until the end of the programme, scheduled for the end of 2015.
"As a pioneer and leader in the supply of catenary-free power solutions for trams,Alstom is pleased to extend its offer and adapt its technologies to road transport vehicles for a greener environment," declared Cristina Anderiz, Alstom Transport Vice President for infrastructure.
Alstom is the only manufacturer with the broadest and most reliable range of catenary-free solutions including APS, on-board batteries, supercapacitors and SRS, to ensure the proper architectural integration of trams into city centres. For improved efficiency, these different technologies can be combined, as will be the case for the Citadis tramway system of Rio[2] (Brazil) which will run 80% on APS and 20% on supercapacitor. Alstom's catenary-freetrams have covered more than 99% of the total distance covered without catenary in the world.
About Alstom Transport:
A promoter of sustainable mobility, Alstom Transport develops and markets the most complete range of systems, equipment and services in the railway sector. Alstom Transport manages entire transport systems, including trains, signalling, maintenance and modernisation, infrastructure and offers integrated solutions. Alstom Transport had sales of €6.2 billion and booked €10 billion of orders in the fiscal year 2014/15. Alstom Transport is present in over 60 countries and employs around 28,000 people.
1International Union of Public Transport
2Alstom has been chosen in 2013 by the VLT Carioca consortium to supply to the city of Rio de Janeiro 32 catenary-free Citadis along with power supply, signalling and telecommunication system.