The Swedish maintenance company Railcare, together with ABB Traction Switzerland, has launched the test phase for the new electric rail maintenance vehicle MPV2. The vehicle, which has a battery and can be powered and charged directly from the overhead line system, is designed to improve the efficiency and sustainability of track maintenance. The first tests of the MPV2 took place in Skelleftehamn in Sweden and focussed on the electrical controls and system communication. The results of the tests, which included testing the charging of the battery via the overhead contact line and the operation of the vacuum motors, were positive. The Swedish Transport Administration still has to authorise the vehicle for use on Swedish lines. Following approval, Railcare plans to train the machine operators and integrate the MPV2 into active contract operations in autumn 2024.
