Say goodbye, rusty coaches of the Philippine National Railways and hello to, hybrid electric trains!
Photo credit: Philippine Star
Finally, the long wait is over. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) launched five (5) locally made hybrid electric trains last Saturday morning. These trains, according to the report, are much safer and more comfortable than the older ones.
This is how it looks like inside the HETs. Photo credit: Renz Laboriante
The project was proudly developed by Filipino engineers from the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) in 2013. They showcased the ability of our homegrown engineers to solve the perennial transportation issues in the Philippines, technology.inquirer.net reported.
“It’s high time that we give recognition to the fact that we are fortunate to have the best engineering and technical minds in the country… We have the solutions to our own problems. We can make local technologies work,” the Science Secretary Mario Montejo told the media during the launch at PNR’s Tutuban station in Manila.
How does it work?
The Hybrid Electric Trains of HET is an energy efficient train and has batteries on board, which could store energy while the train is running. MIRDC expounded as well that with HETs it could reduce fuel consumption by up to 50%. Furthermore, each coach could accommodate 220 passengers.
As further stated in the news report, the hybrid trains were tested from Tutuban to Tayuman station and had an operational speed of 60 to 80 kilometers per hour (kph).
It could also recharge while the train is idle and most importantly, cost lower than imported ones since they are proudly made by Pinoys.
Ultimately, I am glad that our scientists and engineers were given a chance to shine. Congratulations! I’m ecstatic and genuinely excited to ride in one of these hybrid electric trains!
What are your thoughts about these locally made hybrid trains? Are you excited to use them? Share your answers in the comment box below!
