Ecomobility is one of the 4 priorities in the SNCF's research programme. This priority area involves three main fields of research, drawing together multidisciplinary working groups.

In order to comply with noise regulations for operators, the SNCF must work to manage the noise generated by rail transport, by developing, amongst other things, noise reduction solutions or using a combination of systems. This work is also helpful in moving rail transport standards forward.

In the area of energy, this involves a dual approach. Research focuses firstly on major objectives in areas such as procurement, energy management and consumption and secondly on cross-disciplinary issues in order to develop the vital knowledge and skills required to move forward in these areas.

For other topics involved in Sustainable Development, work is underway to more fully develop our merits as an environmentally-friendly business. The SNCF works from design phase right up to the end of equipment or infrastructure life to better manage the impact of rail transport on its environment. This policy is part of the SNCF's roadmap to playing its part an environmentally responsible company.

What specific research projects are underway?
To reduce energy consumption by "juggling" various power sources, one project is looking into the use of hybrid rolling stock (even though this is not thought to be an option for our TGV high-speed trains in the short term). Solutions are being tested for managing new power sources such as supercapacitors or fuel cells and measuring the potential energy savings. In the very long term, it may even be possible to run trains without overhead power lines on part of the route, like trams.
Another project is being tested in the Poitou-Charentes region - a TER regional train fitted with rooftop solar panels to power the lighting systems.

Finally, train driving is also a factor in reducing energy consumption. Modules are being developed to calculate train operating conditions and making the most of times where the train's accumulated kinetic energy is enough to keep it running at appropriate speeds and on time without using the engines. Another research project is focusing on developing a real-time interactive driver assistance system that take into account rail traffic conditions.

To give an example in the area of noise, the SNCF is working with its European partners to define criteria in order for virtual approvals so as to speed up the rolling stock licensing process in order to save time and money in what can be a rather lengthy test phase. In addition, research is being carried out into the impact of noise on sleep patterns in order to better understand complaints made by people living near railways.

Finally, as well as promoting train travel as an ecomobile transport solution, the SNCF is looking at the impacts of climate change and the ways in which it may need to adapt its business activities. The SNCF is also working to optimise the recyclability of track infrastructure or rolling stock, and so improve eco-design for rail travel.