Caltrain has unveiled its state-of-the-art electric fleet, Delivered by Stadler. Caltrain is the oldest continuously operating railroad in the western United States, beginning passenger service with steam trains 160 years ago when Abraham Lincoln was president. After 70 years of diesel trains, the Caltrain Electrification Project, with significant federal and state investment, will usher in a new era of electrified service on the corridor.
On Sunday, August 11, electric trains will make their first scheduled run. Additional electric trains will run each week until the new schedule and fully electrified service between San Francisco and San Jose begins on Saturday, Sept. 21.
Caltrain riders will enjoy a better experience, faster and more frequent service with the new high-capacity electric trains. With the express service, commuters will be able to travel between San Francisco and San Jose in less than an hour. With the ability to accelerate and decelerate much faster than diesel trains, the new trains will also increase service by 20%. This provides more robust and flexible access to cities throughout the rail system, with 16 stations receiving trains every 15-20 minutes during rush hour and all stations receiving trains every 30 minutes on weekends, compared to the hourly service provided today. In addition, the electrified service will increase access and services for priority communities by 26%, while promoting equity along the corridor by reducing noise and air pollution.
Additionally, the new vehicles offer enhanced amenities, including customer-facing Wi-Fi, new digital onboard displays, power outlets at each forward-facing seat, energy-efficient lighting, an improved climate control system, baby-changing tables in the bathroom, security cameras, and expanded storage under the cantilevered seats. They will also generate less noise than their diesel equivalent, making the trip more enjoyable both for riders and residents who live near Caltrain tracks.
“Converting the 51-mile-long rail system from diesel to electric will not only improve service for riders and air quality all along the route, it will also set a standard for other rail systems to follow as we work to reduce carbon pollution across the country,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
