AnoWaAs: Topology-optimized car body for alternative drive systems
An interdisciplinary consortium is working on the mobility of tomorrow as part of the AnoWaAs research project (development of a new type of modular wagon body for rail vehicles). The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection and aims to implement the requirements of alternative drive systems such as hydrogen and battery technology in an innovative wagon body design.
Challenges and goals
Rail vehicles are faced with the task of becoming ever more environmentally friendly and efficient. This requires a fundamental reinterpretation of the vehicle architecture. With AnoWaAs, a topology-optimized vehicle body is being developed that:
- efficiently integrates heavier drive components
- reduces weight through lightweight construction
- reduces costs in production, maintenance and recycling
The combination of innovative materials, novel manufacturing technologies and a modular design creates a flexible system that can be tailored to different requirements.
Our approach
The project follows a comprehensive development process that ranges from the concept phase to prototype implementation. This includes:
- packaging studies to optimally integrate alternative drives,
- new construction methods and design processes to improve structural efficiency,
- optimized manufacturing and assembly technologies to increase economic efficiency.
Special attention is paid to the use of synergies between commercial vehicle and rail vehicle technologies, whereby approaches from both areas are combined and further developed.
Consortium and partners
The interdisciplinary consortium consists of leading players from the rail vehicle and lightweight construction industries:
- ALSTOM
- DLR - Institut für Fahrzeugkonzepte
- elemag GmbH
- GSI mbH Niederlassung SLV Berlin-Brandenburg
- Rausch Metalltechnik GmbH
- University of Stuttgart - Institute for Machine Elements
- 3A Composites GmbH
Sustainability in focus
AnoWaAs not only contributes to increasing the efficiency of rail vehicles, but also to reducing CO2 and conserving resources. The integration of alternative drive systems creates the basis for more climate-friendly mobility.
Perspective
The project will run until April 2024 and will provide valuable insights that will form the basis for future developments in the field of sustainable rail vehicles. We look forward to sharing the results with you!
Keep up to date and find out more about AnoWaAs and our other projects.
Contact: Marcel Burkat
