Forsee Power, a developer of battery systems for commercial and industrial electric vehicles (EVs), announced it has been selected by Medcom, a specialist in power electronics systems for rail vehicles, to equip a fleet of tramways in a major US city. Up to 55 light rail vehicles will be outfitted with FORSEE’s PULSE PLUS battery systems, enabling off-catenary operation.
Last year, a new rolling stock manufacturer was contracted to design and build up to 55 hybrid battery high-floor vehicles to replace aging light rail units in the city’s transit system.
These new trams will feature onboard energy storage systems (OESS) that allow for overhead line operation and battery-powered traction.
The vehicles will enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency while reducing reliance on overhead lines. This hybrid capability enables line extensions into areas without catenary infrastructure, minimizes new construction costs, and helps preserve the urban environment.
As part of the project, Medcom will supply the traction system, and Forsee Power will deliver the battery systems for the OESS. The first battery shipments to Medcom are scheduled for April 2026.
High-powered battery system for light rail
Forsee Power will provide 110 units of its PULSE 26 PLUS RAIL batteries (an adaptation of the PULSE 26 PLUS system tailored for rail applications) to equip the 55 light rail vehicles, with two batteries per vehicle.
Built using Toshiba’s latest LTO cells, the PULSE PLUS system delivers a 20-year lifespan and offers twice the power of its predecessor, the PULSE 15, achieving a peak output of 400 kW for 10 seconds.
Engineered with liquid thermal management for durability in extreme climates and intensive use, the system includes advanced safety features (ISO 26262 ASIL-C, IP6K9K) and supports easier maintenance with an external-access power distribution unit (PDU). Customizable mounting brackets simplify vehicle integration.
PULSE PLUS meets key industrial and railway certifications, including ISO 12405-2, ISO 6469-1, ISO 62619, IEC 60664, UN38.3, and the latest R10-6 and R100-3 approvals, as well as UL and SAE standards — ensuring its safety, performance, and compliance for demanding rail environments.
Filed Under: Technology News