4 ms·
The trains are the Stadler KISS model, from Switzerland.[1] Many in use worldwide since 2012. Caltrain is using the 25KV version, which is high for a commuter l
by Animats 2y ago
The trains are the Stadler KISS model, from Switzerland.[1] Many in use worldwide since 2012. Caltrain is using the 25KV version, which is high for a commuter line but compatible with the California high speed rail system. (BART is 1KV. Streetcars are 400-600V.)
Some of the Caltrain electric trainsets are currently running, intermixed with the two generations of Diesel trains. And the occasional freight train, which is a Union Pacific operation.
I did see one electric trainset being towed by the breakdown locomotive, an old Diesel that Caltrain uses to recover stuck trains.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stadler_KISS https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stadler_KISS
- algo_trader 2y ago> (BART is 1KV. How much amps do they need? 2000A? 5000A? How do they carry so much current?
- immibis 2y agoIt is a third-rail system, which uses a pretty thick conductor, similar to the two that run underneath the train wheels. https://blog.bayareametro.gov/posts/barts-third-rails-being-switched-out https://blog.bayareametro.gov/posts/barts-third-rails-being-...
- inferiorhuman 2y agoIt's worth noting that BART's mainline 1000 volt setup is pretty unusual (and thus expensive). BART's idiotic cable car is, well, a cable car. And eBART is diesel (DMU).
- jonp888 2y ago25kV is the standard for all new mainline railroads these days. Modern electrical technology means there's no reason not to use high voltage AC unless there are issues with clearance(streetcars).