The latest track maintenance machines use both the electrical energy from the contact wire and batteries to power the working drive. Our new E³ drive technologies reduce local emissions - of both pollutants and noise – to a minimum on the work site. Introduced in 2015, Plasser & Theurer’s E³ machines stand for: Economic – Ecologic – Ergonomic. At the iaf International Exhibition for Track Technology held in Münster (Germany) in May 2017, visitors were impressed by the unprecedented E³ technology. Two innovative machines were put on show.

The E³ series enables our partners to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow, including

• environmental protection
• staff protection and operating comfort
• stricter emission limits
• lower budgets for operations and operating resources
• works in tunnels
• inner-city working operation

At Plasser & Theurer, we have taken the classical tamping machine to a new level. The Unimat 09-4x4/4S E³ uses the electrical energy from the overhead line not only for electrical traction during transfer travel. It is also used to power the tamping unit electrically for the first time. The crucial working parameters remain unchanged. If there is no overhead line available for current collection, we use a diesel-electric generator to supply electrical power.

The new E³ system in the drive unit of the universal tamping machine transfers the power from the 15kV/16,7Hz high-voltage line via the high-voltage module, transformer, two power converters, the new electric traction motor and, ultimately, a mechanical frictional connection, to the wheel and the rail.

Our HTW 100 E³ is the first intervention vehicle for the overhead line with hybrid drive. As the overhead line is not carrying electricity when these machines are used, we equipped the HTW 100 E³ with the latest battery technology. During working operation, the machine is energy-efficient, quiet and does not produce emissions. The battery technology has been put to the test in practical operation. The batteries even run longer than the two 6-hour shifts they were designed for. They are charged through energy recovery during braking, via external supply or using a diesel generator.

Both machines have been redesigned and fitted with a user-friendly and ergonomic cabin. Clearly arranged operating desks make it easier to focus on what is crucial during work. Moreover, new materials used in the interior of the cabin and a new lighting concept further increase the operating comfort.