NEX26/18 Battery Locomotives Refurbishment

Nexus will be tendering for the detailed design and associated works to refurbish three battery locomotives, bespoke to the Nexus Metro network, which have become unreliable and not fit for purpose.

The locomotives were originally supplied by Hunslet-GMT in the early 1990's and are a key asset in the emergency recovery of Nexus rolling stock and movement of the rail head treatment train across the Metro railway. Currently network operates from a 1500V DC overhead line system, the battery locos are approved to operate on Network Rail assets, although is not necessarily required to maintain this approval.

The refurbishment will encompass:

Traction and Solid‑State Power Systems

Modernisation of the traction equipment (motor alternator and motor generator set) using solid‑state power technology and power electronics.

Mechanical Systems & Running Gear

Overhaul of structural components, suspension, wheelsets, and key mechanical assemblies.

Electrical & Control Systems

Renewal of high voltage and auxiliary electrical systems upgraded control equipment, and readiness for future signalling integration.

Braking Systems

Refurbishment and commissioning of brake discs and brake system.

Cab and Operator Environment

Improvements to the cab environment (sealing, comfort, ergonomics) and general enhancements

Potential suppliers will be given an opportunity to view the vehicles as part of the market engagement exercise, prior to a formal procurement.

Design Requirements

The design requirements for the battery locomotives are:

- Maximum speed 55kph

- Pantograph height above rail when lowered - 3555mm

- Pantograph height when fully raised - 5666mm

- Vehicle width - 2600mm

- Wheel diameter - 838mm

- Cab height above rail - 3160mm

- Wheelbase - 2500mm

- Length over buffers - 7500mm

- Length over extended coupler - 9000mm

- Tare / gross weight - 26.25t

- Couplers are Bergische Stahl Industrie (BSI) with a standard screw coupling

- Wheel arrangement is 0-4-0

- Continuous power rating of 180hp

- High voltage circuit - supply from 1500V DC overhead line system

- Indusi track brake equipment

- Lead Acid traction battery - 540V, 116kWh at 5-hour discharge

- Low voltage circuits, - 110V, 24V

- Traction motor (one) - 180hp, 540V DC force ventilated.

Estimated value: £1,000,000 - £2,000,000