Source: News on Air
Context:
The West central railway (WCR) has developed battery-operated dual-mode locomotive 'Navdoot'.
It is running between Jabalpur, Mudwara and other stations on trial basis.
About ‘Navdoot’
This engine runs on both modes i.e. battery and electricity.
This e-engine can pull 18 coaches at a speed of 30 kmph.
It has 84 batteries and has a capacity to pull 400 tonnes at present.
This has been developed by the Electric Department of New Katni Junction.
Significance
This Dual Mode Locomotive has also received the’ Best Innovation Award’ from the Railway Board.
Railways will save 1000 litres of diesel every day with this new locomotive.
After clearing all the trials, it will be used more widely in other stations for purposes like carrying goods, coal, oil tankers etc.
Types of electric vehicles in India:
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): Fully powered by electricity. These are more efficient compared to hybrid and plug-in hybrids.
Hybrid Electric Vehicle:
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV): The vehicle uses both the internal combustion (usually petrol) engine and the battery-powered motor powertrain. The petrol engine is used both to drive and charge when the battery is empty. These vehicles are not as efficient as fully electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): Uses both an internal combustion engine and a battery charged from an external socket (they have a plug). This means the vehicle’s battery can be charged with electricity rather than the engine. PHEVs are more efficient than HEVs but less efficient than BEVs.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV): Electric energy is produced from chemical energy. For example, a hydrogen FCEV.
Associated agencies
Ministry of Power: The Electric Vehicle industry in India is far behind, with less than 1% of the total vehicle sales.
Currently, Indian roads are dominated by conventional vehicles and have approximately 0.4 million electric two-wheelers and a few thousand electric cars only.
The Indian EV industry has been on the back seat due to various challenges.
The government of India have undertaken multiple initiatives to promote manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles in India.
With support of the government, electric vehicles have started penetrating in the Indian market.
However, availability of adequate Charging Infrastructure is one of the key requirements for accelerated adoption of electric vehicles in India.
