ABB India is taking a significant step towards strengthening its position in the rail market with the local assembly of the BORDLINE® BC Battery Charger Module. The new assembly line, set up at the facility in Bengaluru, India, will not only expedite delivery times but also reinforce the company’s commitment to supporting India’s growing rail infrastructure needs.
By localizing the assembly of these modules, ABB’s Traction division enhances supply chain efficiency and meets the rising demand for advanced rail solutions. This is a game-changer for the market, as it is the first instance of ABB in India manufacturing modules using cutting-edge Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductors.
"Energy-efficient technologies have been the driving force for engineers at ABB India’s Traction Division. The Silicon Carbide-based equipment produced here reflects our commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability. Our endeavor is to provide our transportation customers in the rail and road segments with technologies that make them leaner and cleaner" said Moonish Ghuge, President, Traction Division, Motion Business, ABB India.
Engineered to Outrun - Compact, robust, and advanced technology
The BORDLINE® BC Battery Charger Module is a prime example of our engineering excellence. With a compact and modular design, this product weighs only 10 kilograms – about the size of a shoe box – yet delivers 10 kW of power. It stands out for its high-power density, made possible through the use of Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductors, which allow it to operate efficiently in extreme conditions, including high temperatures, vibrations, and shocks.
The BORDLINE® BC is not just about size and power. It is equipped with a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), enabling it to adjust its charging characteristics based on battery voltage and temperature. This intelligent feature also ensures that the module can detect faults and take protective actions while communicating with the vehicle's control system.
Modular flexibility for diverse rail applications
One of the standout features of the BORDLINE® BC is its modularity. While each battery charger module can deliver up to 10 kW, up to four modules can be connected in parallel to provide up to 40 kW, making it highly versatile for a wide range of rail applications. Whether used in high-power locomotives, EMU, metro rail systems or more, these battery chargers are already making an impact across India and globally.
The BORDLINE® BC Battery Charger is designed for various configurations. It can be used as a standalone unit in a custom cabinet or integrated into an auxiliary or traction converter cabinet, offering flexibility to meet different mechanical and installation requirements.
A localized manufacturing milestone
The move to assemble the BORDLINE® BC Battery Charger Module in India aligns with ABB’s strategy to localize production amid rising demand for advanced rail solutions. Following the successful delivery of over 1,600 imported modules, the new Bengaluru assembly line upholds global quality standards while leveraging automated testing to enhance efficiency and minimize errors. This move enables ABB to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions faster, supporting the rapid growth of India’s rail sector.
Delivering innovation for a greener future
With 97% power efficiency, the eco-friendly BORDLINE® BC Battery Charger supports sustainable rail transport with low maintenance and long-lasting reliability. Aligned with India’s decarbonization goals, it’s already powering locomotives, metros, and off-road vehicles globally. By localizing production and advancing technologies like Silicon Carbide semiconductors, ABB India reinforces its leadership in delivering clean, efficient, and reliable transportation solutions.
