Amtrak´s high-speed trainset program

The author describes how, in September, 1994, Amtrak issued a specification for 26 high-speed trainsets. Twenty-four will be electrically powered for the Northeast Corridor and operate at speeds up to 150 mph (240 km/h). Two will be diesel- or turbine-powered for emerging high-speed corridors, and will operate at speeds up to 125 mph (200 km/h). The trainsets will have many characteristics of the Swedish X2000 and German ICE, recently tested by Amtrak, as well as the TGV and other state-of-the art trainsets in worldwide operation. The lightweight trainsets will have an AC propulsion system, and be built to Amtrak´s new structural standards. These standards have never been used in the domestic passenger rail industry. They will provide the greatest amount of crew and passenger safety possible within the limits of current technology. The trainsets will go through the most extensive commissioning test in Amtrak´s history. Tests will be performed at speeds up to 165 mph (265 km/h) and up to 12 inches (300 mm) of cant deficiency. Additional tests will be performed on Amtrak´s Northeast Corridor