In a collaboration between Southern Electric Traction Group (SETG), High Viz Media Group Ltd, and NXTGENbps, the historic 1960s commuter train No. 3417, named ‘Gordon Pettitt’, is set to return to service on the prestigious Bluebell Railway, now equipped with state-of-the-art sustainable battery technology. As part of a broader and ongoing restoration effort, the train has been fully restored to operational condition, with NXTGENbps’s ‘Goat’ Lithium-Iron-Phosphate battery system retrofitted to power the train’s full lighting system—without the need for structural modifications—preserving its original integrity. 

Founded by Chris Buckland, Steve Upton and Gwil Jones, the SETG took on the task of restoring the four-coach commuter train, once a staple of Southern England’s rail network. After being sold by South West Trains to the Bluebell Railway for just £1, the train was entrusted to SETG to ensure its preservation as part of Britain’s rail heritage. 

A key challenge in the restoration was maintaining lighting when the train is off the mainline, where it typically relies on third rail power. Nick Collier, Managing Director of High Viz Media Group, looked to NXTGENbps for an innovative solution: a modern sustainable battery system that could be retrofitted without altering the train’s structure. The NXTGENbps Goat portable power system provides the energy for the train’s lighting, enhancing the passenger experience while ensuring full operational functionality—a crucial advancement in heritage railway preservation. 

The battery retrofit was completed in just five weeks, involving the integration of modern technology into the train’s existing electrical system. “We’ve taken a 55-year-old train and integrated cutting-edge technology without compromising its historical integrity,” said Steve Upton of SETG. The team carefully adapted the Goat battery system to work with the train’s infrastructure, powering fluorescent lights throughout the train. This retrofit ensures compliance with safety regulations, particularly when travelling through tunnels or operating in low-light conditions. 

Nick Collier emphasised the importance of maintaining the original design of the train. “Installing permanent modern batteries would have been both expensive and invasive, compromising the train’s structure. The Goat system, however, is fully removable, offering a flexible, scalable solution that integrates seamlessly into the existing framework.” 

No. 3417 ‘Gordon Pettitt’ is scheduled to return to service on the Bluebell Railway, operating between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead. For the first time in over 13 years, the restored train will carry passengers once again. The retrofitting project has already garnered considerable attention from railway enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, especially for its innovative and non-invasive approach. 

Chris Buckland from SETG highlighted the broader potential of this technology for other heritage railways. “The ability to retrofit modern battery systems without significant structural changes is a major breakthrough. This solution could be applied to other heritage trains facing similar challenges.” 

Looking ahead, SETG, High Viz Media Group, and NXTGENbps are exploring wider applications for the Goat battery technology across other preserved railway vehicles. This retrofit approach offers immense potential for rolling stock that requires a reliable, sustainable power source, all while preserving the integrity of historic trains. This collaboration exemplifies how modern technology can be successfully integrated into heritage preservation, ensuring the continued operation of these iconic trains for years to come.