Voltify, the Israeli company for converting diesel trains to electricity, raised $30 million

Voltify offers a system that aims to enable a transition to electricity without the need to invest in expensive traditional infrastructure, such as overhead power lines along the tracks. According to the company, its solution combines battery-based locomotives, a dynamic charging system while traveling and a network of micro-grids that produce and store energy locally using renewable sources.

Unlike existing models of electric trains, which require a stop for charging or a permanent connection to the power grid, Voltify’s technology is based on charging while moving. In this way, according to the company, it is possible to maintain operational continuity and reduce downtime, alongside reducing dependence on the central electricity grid and volatility in energy prices.

In parallel with the development of the technology, the company has already signed a paid pilot agreement with one of the largest railway companies in the world, with the start of deployment expected in the coming months. In addition, Voltify states that there is a growing backlog of orders from regional operators in the United States, and that the first full operation of the system, which will include a locomotive, a charging array and an energy supply network, is planned for the coming year.

Dafna Langer, co-founder and CEO of Voltify, says: “We founded the company to solve one of the biggest challenges of the railway industry – dealing with energy costs. Our platform allows railway companies to switch to clean and cheap energy, without changing the way they operate. A reduction of even 5% in the cost of energy is very significant, while a reduction of more than 20% completely changes the rules of the game.”