The unit is a battery-powered version of its multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Using an Epiroc-developed electric driveline technology platform, it can be used for towing ballast wagons during track work, to clear track obstacles, to melt snow or to vacuum away stones from the line.

The battery-electric technology platform, according to Epiroc, is modular and scalable, and the machine is designed with batteries that have been supplied by Northvolt.

"Railcare's launch of a battery-electric railway maintenance vehicle is a vital step forward in the effort to reduce CO2 emissions," president and CEO Helena Hedblom said.

"We chose to work with Epiroc in this project because they are leading the development of drivelines and battery-powered mining equipment," Railcare CEO Daniel Öholm added.

"Our customers around the world have a huge demand for this type of solutions…especially in city centers, tunnels, and mines where exhaust fumes and noise levels are a big environmental problem."

Epiroc and Railcare first teamed up for the advancement of the former's electric driveline technology in February 2019.