Battery Thermal Management System Supports Stadler Hybrid Locomotives for MBC in Switzerland

DC Airco has supplied its DC14004 Liquid Air Battery Thermal Management System for use on Stadler metre gauge hybrid locomotives operated by MBC (Morges–Bière–Cossonay) in Switzerland. The system plays a key role in ensuring reliable and efficient operation of the onboard battery packs used in hybrid rail applications. As rail operators across Europe transition toward lower emission traction technologies, effective battery thermal management has become critical. The DC14004 system ensures that traction batteries are kept within their optimal temperature range, helping to maximize battery lifespan, maintain performance, and support safe and efficient hybrid operation.

Efficient Thermal Management for Hybrid Traction
The DC14004 is a compact liquid air heat pump system developed specifically for battery thermal management in mobile and rail applications. Installed on the Stadler metre gauge hybrid locomotives, the system regulates battery temperature under varying operating conditions, including regenerative braking, high traction loads, and fluctuating ambient temperatures typical of Swiss regional rail networks.

With a maximum thermal capacity of 6 kW, the DC14004 efficiently extracts heat from the battery system and dissipates it directly into the surrounding environment. Its single coolant circuit design eliminates the need for complex double circuit solutions, reducing system weight, complexity, and maintenance requirements.

Designed for Railway Applications
The DC14004 is railway certified and purpose built for harsh mobile environments. Its rugged design includes an integrated flow sensor and coolant filter, supporting reliable long term operation and protecting sensitive battery components from thermal stress or coolant contamination. The system supports a wide voltage range of 400 Vac or 280–680 Vdc, making it well suited for modern hybrid and battery assisted traction architectures. A 24 Vdc control interface and CANopen communication allow seamless integration into the locomotive’s control and diagnostic systems. Supporting Sustainable Operations on the MBC Network

MBC’s metre gauge network connects regional communities in western Switzerland and places strong emphasis on efficiency and sustainability. The introduction of Stadler hybrid locomotives supports reduced fuel consumption and emissions, particularly on non electrified or partially electrified routes. By maintaining stable battery temperatures, the DC Airco DC14004 system directly contributes to:

• Improved battery efficiency and cycle life
• Reliable power availability during hybrid operation
• Reduced downtime and maintenance costs
• Enhanced overall locomotive availability

A Proven Solution for Rail Electrification and Hybridization
The deployment of the DC14004 on Stadler hybrid locomotives highlights DC Airco’s expanding role in rail electrification and energy storage support systems. In addition to traditional HVAC solutions, the company’s expertise in thermal management now supports e mobility, battery technology, and next generation railway vehicles.

This project demonstrates how dedicated battery thermal management is becoming a core component of modern railway vehicles,” DC Airco noted. “With the DC14004, operators gain a compact, efficient, and railway certified solution designed specifically for hybrid and battery based traction systems.”