Caltrain, a rail service owned and operated by the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board and running from San Francisco to San Jose, will soon test its electric trains powered by an overhead contact system.
“The start of testing for our new electric trains marks an historic moment for our agency, symbolizing tangible progress towards electrification” Michelle Bouchard Caltrain, executive director, said. “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.”
Tests will be conducted on the Santa Clara Drill Track between Santa Clara and College Park Stations. This summer test runs will expand to the main track between San Antonio and San Jose Diridon stations.
Caltrain set the goal to electrify its corridor by 2024.
The rail service’s electrification project is the first in North America where diesel trains and their infrastructure components will be transitioned to an electrified system.
Electrification will lower greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, relieve traffic congestion, reduce noise, and increase access for communities.
In addition, the new trains will feature baby-changing tables, increased storage capacities, on board displays with digital trip information, power outlets at every seat, and Wi-Fi.
California’s future High Speed Rail network will run on the Caltrain corridor.