ULRP has been developing standalone rail-based solutions for the past twenty-five years.

Over six years from 2017 three Innovate UK grants have been successfully won and developed. These have involved proposals to use biomethane-powered engines as prime movers combined with either a lithium-ion battery pack and/or flywheel for brake energy recovery.

Secured an Innovate UK and UKRI £350k grant to develop a proof of concept train powered by a 2.9-litre biomethane engine with a flywheel energy store.

Innovate UK £60k grant to concept design a self-charging hybrid train powered by two 0.9 litre biomethane powered generators in combination with a lithium-ion battery pack to smooth battery and generator demands to extend the life of both, carrying 120 passengers and delivering 1,000km range. 

BioUltra’s sleek design creates a light and spacious feel yet maximises passenger capacity.  It has step-free boarding at platforms and is DDA and RGS compliant.  Its strength comes from integral lattice beams, providing a strong cage to protect passengers.  Bonded clad panels stiffen it further.  And it’s designed to survive impact with heavy trains and vehicles, with large crumple zones at each end.

Drawing on the BioUltra train concept, designed to provide a low floor tram option, capable of carrying 210 passengers.

Innovate UK and GCRE £37k grant to concept design a solution for local rail services using hydrogen or biomethane refuelling.

To gain greater traction in the UK market we are extending the ULR powertrain options to include a battery electric flywheel drive, known as the all-electric BOLT.