Japan's first hybrid prototype Class HD300 dedicated shunting locomotive, which JR Freight had been developing since two years ago, was launched at the end of March. The locomotive, employing hybrid system for the first time in Japan, has been developed as a prototype in order to replace the aging diesel powered DE10 shunting locomotives. Applying high performance storage battery technology, it is expected to reduce exhaust emissions by at least 30% to 40% and noise levels by at least 10 decibels compared with existing Class DE10 locomotives. Its test runs are planned to start in FY 2010. The results will be reflected to large-scale production.
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