On Wednesday September 25, 2024, the French railway company, SNCF, lifted the veil on one of its innovative projects: Draisy. This is an electric mini-train intended to boost mobility on small lines of the national network.
Draisy: a 100% electric mini-train
SNCF is launching Draisy, an electric mini-train designed to revive small abandoned national network lines. 14 meters long and weighing 20 tonnes, Draisy is much lighter than traditional trains and can transport up to 80 passengers, including 30 seated, specifies the SNCF in its press release. Capable of reaching speeds of 100 km/h, this mini-train uses batteries similar to those in electric buses. These can be recharged directly at the station. which will allow SNCF to reduce its operating costs.
The project benefits from the support of ADEME as part of France 2030, with partners such as the Alsatian industrialist Lohr, GCK Battery, Stations-e, and Railenium. The first full-scale tests will take place on the Sarralbe-Kalhausen line in 2027, before a first deployment planned for 2028.
Revitalize fine service lines
Draisy provides a modern response to transport needs in rural areas. Thanks to its rechargeable batteries at the station, it can operate without electrification of existing lines, which should allow SNCF to offer attractive prices to its users.
Draisy is part of a vision of revitalization of “ fine service lines », which represent a third of the national network and which have been gradually closed, due to lack of profitability. Draisy will thus complete the TER offer and the future Innovative Light Train (TELLI), the objective being to revitalize abandoned lines, to strengthen the attractiveness of the most remote areas, all while responding to the challenges of the energy transition. .
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