GWR’s Class 230: UK Battery Train Record (320km)

GWR’s battery-electric train sets a new world record, traveling 320km on a single charge. A major milestone in sustainable rail technology.

GWR’s Class 230: UK Battery Train Record (320km)
September 6, 2025 11:37 am
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Introduction

Great Western Railway (GWR) set a new world record on 20 August 2025, with a Class 230 battery-electric multiple unit train traveling 320 kilometers (approximately 200 miles) on a single charge. This achievement highlights advancements in sustainable rail technology and coincided with the Railway 200 celebrations.

Record-Breaking Journey

On 20 August 2025, a GWR Class 230 battery-electric multiple unit completed a 320-kilometer journey without recharging. This distance surpasses the previous world record of 223.7 km, which was set in Germany in 2021 by a Stadler Flirt Akku.

Route and Train Details

The record-breaking train was a converted 1982 London Underground District Line train, retrofitted with modern battery-electric systems. The journey began at the Reading Train Care Depot, went via London Paddington to Oxford, returned to Paddington, and concluded back in Reading. The entire route was completed on a single battery charge.

Previous Trials and UK Records

In February 2024, GWR conducted a fast-charge battery train trial where a Class 230 train traveled 138 km on battery power from Long Marston to Reading, using only 45% of the battery’s capacity. Prior to these trials, the UK record for battery train distance was 135 km, set in 2022 by a Stadler Class 777 train.

Industry Impact

This accomplishment supports the rail industry’s efforts to decarbonize non-electrified routes, reduce reliance on diesel, and explore alternatives to traditional propulsion systems. The record-breaking run follows the release of a White Paper published by GWR in July.

Last June 2025, we covered the NJT contract and its impact on commuter rail. Click here to read – NJT Contract: Future of Commuter Rail, Essential Trends & Infrastructure

Conclusion

GWR’s Class 230 battery-electric train set a new world record by traveling 320 kilometers on a single charge. This achievement highlights the potential of battery-powered trains and positions the UK at the forefront of battery train performance.

Company Summary

Great Western Railway (GWR): A railway company that operates passenger services in the United Kingdom, known for its innovations in sustainable rail technology.

Stadler: A manufacturer of railway rolling stock, including battery-electric trains.

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