sähköJunat

Sähköjunat, or electric trains, are railway vehicles that draw their power from an external source, typically overhead lines or a third rail. This external power is converted into motive force, propelling the train. Unlike diesel trains, sähköjunat produce no direct exhaust emissions at the point of use, making them a cleaner alternative for public transportation and freight.

The infrastructure required for sähköjunat includes a robust electrical network. This involves substations to convert high-voltage electricity from the grid to the appropriate voltage for the trains, as well as the catenary system (overhead lines) or third rail that delivers the power to the train's pantograph or shoe. The initial investment in this infrastructure can be substantial, but it is offset by lower operating costs compared to diesel trains due to the higher efficiency of electric motors and the avoidance of fuel transportation.

Sähköjunat are known for their efficient acceleration and regenerative braking capabilities. Regenerative braking allows the train to convert kinetic energy back into electrical energy during deceleration, feeding it back into the network or storing it in onboard batteries. This further enhances energy efficiency. They also tend to be quieter than their diesel counterparts, contributing to reduced noise pollution in urban areas. The widespread adoption of sähköjunat is a key component in many countries' strategies for decarbonizing their transportation sectors and improving air quality.