HS1: new trains running at 250mph

[els]

Given this line uses in-cab signalling, is there actually any reason why the line speed for HS1 should be 186mph if the trains using the line are sufficiently modern? (on the straight sections at least)

Basically what i am asking is, with Eurostar getting new trains, will these be able to run at say 250mph on HS1?

Also, what will happen to the old Eurostar trains? They are too good to get rid of, surely.

 

[ainsworth74]

Basically what i am asking is, with Eurostar getting new trains, will these be able to run at say 250mph on HS1?

The new trains will have a top speed of 200mph. I wouldn't be surprised if it was possible to upgrade (if necessary) HS1 to run at such speeds without too much difficulty. But I stand to be corrected!

Also, what will happen to the old Eurostar trains? They are too good to get rid of, surely.

The new trains are being procured to run new services deeper into the continent whilst the old 373s will remain on the present three capitals services (but will be getting a significant interior refurbishment).

 

[ChrisCooper]

The big question is would it be worth it? HS1 is such a short distance by high speed line standards that and increased speed would give negligable reduction in journey time, and they would still have to accelerate to and brake from that speed. There would be the usual problem that not all trains are running at that speed, both the 186mph Eurostars and 140mph 395s would get in the way. I don't think Eurostars on HS1 get that much 186mph running anyway due to the fairly short distance to get up speed before needing to slow down again. The speed through the tunnels under London is lower anyway, 200kph I think.

 

[Jordeh]

The speed increase would be negligible anyway, ICE's Velaro D and Eurostar's E320 are only capable of 199mph, I doubt the 13mph speed increase would make much difference to journey times over High Speed 1.

 

[Via Bank]

Remember, though, that Velaros (both DB's and Eurostar's E320s) are true EMUs, as opposed to the HST/TGV/Acela double-power-car arrangement of the 373s. Therefore, they will probably accelerate and brake quite a bit faster than the present stock (although the effects this will have on an express from St Pancras to Paris Nord might, in all probability, be negligible.)