Hybrid locomotive propulsion system

A hybrid locomotive comprising:

• a frame;
• ground engaging elements supporting the frame;
• a prime mover for powering propulsion of the ground engaging elements, the prime mover mounted in the frame;
• a battery associated with the prime mover and mounted in the frame;
• a controller including a route dataset having a topography of a route of the hybrid locomotive, the controller configured to:
• analyze the topography of the route and location of the hybrid locomotive;
• identify when the hybrid locomotive enters a geofence area;
• and
• activate a boost mode to discharge an electric energy stored in the battery to the traction motor to boost a tractive force of the ground engaging elements.

A method for hybrid propulsion of a locomotive, the method comprising:

• providing the locomotive with a frame, ground engaging elements supporting the frame, a prime mover for powering propulsion of the ground engaging elements, a traction motor associated with the ground engaging elements, a battery associated with the traction motor, and a controller in communication with the prime mover, the battery, and the traction motor;
• analyzing, via the controller, a route dataset provided in the controller, the route dataset having the topography of the route of the locomotive provided in the controller;
• identifying, via the controller, when the locomotive enters a geofence area;
• and
• activating, via the controller, a boost mode to discharge an electric energy stored in the battery, the electric energy provided to the traction motor and converted to mechanical energy to boost a tractive force of the ground engaging elements.