Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
I suspect that the future of Passenger rail travel is in commuter operations, and maybe some long-distance specials and railtours like the American Orient Express. The main problem is speed. It takes a fraction of the time to fly between two cities that it would take to travel by train (though the new airline security measures might be making this less of a factor). Acela sets are a definate improvement on this front, though they need overhead power lines and dedicated trackage. I would suggest that what is needed is an equivelent of the British HST - these are 9-car diesel trains consisting of two power cars with 7 passenger cars marshalled between them. Cruising speed is about 125mph, though they've been known to hit 140mph on test (and in service, before BR discovered that this was possible and fitted speed limiters!). These have been running since the 1970s and most are still in service today - they just keep going!
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!