Recent content by longhorn

Since the power units are standard now, I guess the Americans can actually say they are getting a TGV like train in the Acela.

Did not see this posted. Interesting Alstom is essentially using the same power cars around the world. Amtrak's next gen Acela has the same power cars. Alstom stated acquisition costs had to be lowered so sharing the same basic train chassis or platform for International sales may be Alstom's...

What is to be gained by going this route than buying the body and frame from one vendor? This is interesting. I see that Plaxton does have a double decker US version for sale, I guess waiting for orders.

Interesting. I wonder why Stagecoach does not operate this in the US for their MegaBus brand? Whats the difference between Van Hool's TD and this Plaxton ride and tech wise? It's interesting that Volvo will sell bus frames and powerplants to competitors; it must be profitable.

What is this? Its not a Volvo 9700 DD. Its not a Van Hool TD that we have in the USA.

Mismatched power and pax cars seem not to be a concern of the manufacturer, the one who has to sell these things.

The good thing about the Avelia is that is made from tried and proven components. May not be as sexy as am AGV, but it will work.

Amtrak is testing Avelia on the NEC. As regards looks, Amtrak had certain priorities and more important set price per consist. Alstrom looked at its present product book, and came up with a "new" product for Amtrak ( I doubt we will see this new product sold anywhere else in the world)...

When I went last year, just know the line at CDG train station to buy tickets at the automated machines can be long...........................In which case walk to the automated machines that no one sees on the back side.

https://twitter.com/Alstom/status/1229798241727897600 Alstom says- "We think it's gorgeous, but we might be a little biased!"

You are right, the Avelia Liberty is what the product is called. But I will be shocked if another railroad orders this tailor made product from the Northeast Corridor. TGV power cars with Pendolino pax cars are how Amrak employees are describing it, as its the only way Alstom could meet Amtraks'...

And what is an Avelia Liberty? TGV power cars with tilt Pendolino pax cars. Its a "mutt" but one that has proven itself.

Impressive how the rest of the train came to rest, relatively in line. Most derailments in America end up with the rail cars crashing with an accordion type effect.

Alstom's new TGV powercar/ Pendolino pax car mashup called Acela 2 is on its way to the Transportation Technology Center proving ground near Pueblo, Colo facility.

Just got back from Europe and yes heading west is about hour or hour and a half longer. Best advice, buy some noise cancelling headphones, preferably Bose QC35IIs or the new 700 series. Bring you some railroad reading material, make sure to get a window seat ( I am also an aviation enthusiast)...