this post was submitted on 26 Apr 2025
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I wonder if they could just add a caboose to every train that would clean off the panels as it travels over them.
Yeah thats what I was thinking too
Oh, well here we go:
“The panels are equipped with anti-reflective coatings to prevent glare, and cleaning systems, such as cylindrical brushes mounted on trains, help maintain efficiency by removing dust and debris.”
Lovely
Especially since train toilets traditionally empty on the tracks... Although they probably no longer do these days.
(also I had to look "caboose" up)
Can confirm they don't do that any more in Switzerland. They separate solids and liquids and have integrated bioreactors to clear the fluids. Only the cleaned liquids get dumped these days, the solids are stored and emptied every few weeks.
The new-ish Bombardier Twindexx Express have an issue with their bioreactors so unfortunately whatever they dump still stinks. The main train company SBB claimed to fix it in Summer 2024, but it was still stinky in Autumn.