User Guide

MICROSOFT TRAIN SIMULATOR ENGINEER’S HANDBOOK
HOW TO DRIVE AN ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE | 53
WHAT IS AN ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE?
In 1893, General Electric produced the first electric locomotive, but it was to be many years before
electrics were to become a common sight on the nation’s rails. In addition to the technological barriers
that had to be overcome to make electrified transport a reality, it was expensive to install and maintain
miles of power lines over the rails. This impediment remains today, and is one of the reasons that
diesel-electrics (which generate their own electricity) are now the most commonly used locomotives.
Despite this limitation, electric routes continue to be developed all over the world, primarily for high-
speed passenger service. Electric trains continue to operate and evolve because they:
Are the lightest and fastest form of rail transport, since they don’t have to carry power-generating
equipment on board.
Are the cleanest and quietest form of motive power for rail service.
Are the beneficiaries of a wide range of technological advances in materials and electronics.
Use fuel efficiently.
Can use multiple locomotives with a single crew, or even have their traction motors distributed
throughout the train.
Retain a high level of pulling power on uphill grades.
Use dynamic braking, which can save wear on the brake shoes and return electric power to the
supply line.
Spend more of their time in service (rather than in the shop or taking on water and coal).
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1 Battery Pack 5 Central Block (Motor Block) 9 Coupler
2 Air Supply Unit Compressor 6 Traction Motors 10 Cab
3 Main Reservoir 7 Traction Motor Blowers
4 Auxiliary Block 8 Pantograph