Caltrain electric trains entered trials under power from the overhead contact system (OCS) for the first time.
Initial tests will be conducted between Santa Clara and College Park stations on the Santa Clara Drill Track and they will be expanded on the main track, between San Antonio and San Jose Diridon stations this summer.
“The start of testing for our new electric trains marks an historic moment for our agency, symbolising tangible progress towards electrification. It signifies a future of improved service, reduced environmental impact and a more reliable experience that will benefit both our riders, and the communities that we serve,” Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard said.
“Now that our new trains are running on our own power for the first time, it’s clear that the start of electrified service is just around the corner. I couldn’t be more excited for our riders to experience the future of Caltrain next fall,” Caltrain Board Chair Jeff Gee said.
Caltrain electric trains are quieter than the existing diesel fleet, and will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and relieving traffic congestion.
The procurement of the new trains are part of the electrification project, the first one undertaking in North America in which diesel trains and their infrastructure components are transitioned to an electrified system.
The USD 2.4 billion project will improve the customer experience by increasing the number of trains, modernising service and adding new safety elements. The new trains will feature on board displays with digital trip information, increased storage capacities, baby-changing tables, Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat.
The electrified service will advance equity along the Caltrain corridor by reducing noise and air pollution while increasing access for priority equity communities. It will also set the framework for California’s future high-speed rail network that will run on the Caltrain corridor.
Caltrain provides rail service from San Francisco to San Jose, with commute service to Gilroy.
In September 2022, the company unveiled its new electric trains which are scheduled to enter passenger operation in 2024 removing the 30-year-old diesel fleet. The trains are manufactured by Stadler under a USD 693.5 million contract which also includes a battery electric trainset to be tested on Tamien – Gilroy line and Salinas on UPRR owned line.
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