09 Jul 2026
AS 7665 Reverse Pantograph Charging
The closing date for nominations – Friday 31 July 2026
The Australian Rail Industry Standards Organisation (ARISO) is seeking nominations from rail industry subject matter experts in electrical engineering, locomotive or EMU design, battery storage systems, trackside infrastructure, and rail operations, to join a Development Group to develop AS 7665 Reverse Pantograph Charging.
How will this standard help the rail industry?
AS 7665 is a new standard which will harmonise charging stations and promote interoperability for battery operated locomotives – supporting the goals of reducing CO2 emissions and dependency on imported fuels, as well as the introduction of locomotives and other rail vehicles with battery power for traction. Generally these vehicles will require a means for static charging.
A harmonised standard for reverse pantograph charging will enable infrastructure to be provided at rail terminals and yards where future battery powered vehicles may enter service, avoiding the need for duplication of equipment to suit different suppliers. It also allows rolling stock suppliers to design vehicles knowing what infrastructure will be available.
About
The Standard describes systems for wayside charging of batteries. It will provide more detail on the interface where a reverse pantograph, mounted on a structure extending over the track, is lowered to engage roof mounted conductor bars on the vehicle to charge the battery. The requirements will include:
- height and operating range of the reverse pantograph
- dimensions and electrical requirements for the pan head
- height and other dimensions of the conductor bars on the vehicle roof
- voltage range and power to be provided
- requirements for vehicle positioning
- communications protocol between the charger and battery management system
- electrical insulation and protection requirements
- requirements for safe operation.
Contributions from individuals with strong technical knowledge, hands‑on experience, or strategic insight are essential to ensure the Standard is accurate, clear, and practically applicable.
Time commitment
Development Group membership is voluntary and requires the support of your organisation to attend and contribute. A minimum of a day per month time commitment will be required between August 2026 and June 2027. Further information on the responsibilities of a Development Group member can be obtained from the our website.
How to contribute
Stakeholders and interested parties are invited to submit nominations for rail industry experts to join this Development Group to contribute to the overall depth and quality of the product.
Click on the options below to either:
The closing date for nominations is Friday 31 July 2026.
As the rail industry’s only accredited Standards Development Organisation (SDO), ARISO continues to collaborate with government, rail operators and industry leaders to improve the efficiency and harmonisation of the Australian rail network, ensuring national interoperability, safety and sustainability into the future.