Can you run a model train from batteries?

Model trains certainly run at a voltage low enough that they can be operated from batteries, and as lithium batteries become smaller and more powerful it is plausible that a model train could run from batteries if you wish, but the question is would you want them to?

The concept is not new. Many garden railway fans have already decided that battery-operation is a good option, but what about smaller gauges? There are inevitably advantages and disadvantages to using batteries, the advantages being no need for track cleaning or impeccable electrical continuity between sections of track, no wiring your layout, no complications when installing reversing loops and the ability to run on any layout whether it be DC, DCC or unpowered track.

The disadvantages are no ready-to-run battery operated engines (not even a conversion kit) although it can be done (and has) you would need to really know what you are doing and order the components separately before trying to shoehorn them into your engine. You would also need an understanding of remote/radio control technology (assuming you wanted to control your locomotive) but the biggest bugbear for other types of battery-operated models such as boats, planes and cars is the unsatisfactory ratio between the operational life of the battery and its charging time with it taking anywhere up to three hours to recharge a lithium battery.

So it would seem that operating model trains from batteries would eliminate a few less desirable elements of our hobby, but in return give us some brand new headaches to contend with.