As the UK aims to retire diesel engines, manufacturers like Hitachi and Siemens are developing battery-powered trains to reduce costs and emissions. Hitachi’s new tri-mode train, capable of using lithium batteries and diesel, has recently completed testing and may travel purely on battery power for up to 90km. While existing diesel-electric trains could be retrofitted, new safety considerations around battery technology arise. The push for cleaner transportation aligns with governmental goals for a sustainable rail network, though electrification costs remain a challenge.