The tests will ensure the amenities including air-conditioning, lighting and Wi-Fi are functional, as well as checking ride quality, noise and vibration. The train will then head to the Federal Railroad Administration’s test track in Pueblo, Colorado, to undergo testing at operational and maximum speeds.
During this period, one of the seven-car trains will be sent to Elmira, New York, to undergo testing in a climate room to ensure it can operate properly under a range of environmental conditions.
The EMUs will provide a quieter ride than Caltrain’s existing diesel fleet, and the improved suspension will also provide a smoother journey.
Caltrain awarded Stadler a $US 551m contract in August 2016 to supply 16 six-car Kiss double-deck EMUs, with an option for another 96 cars worth an additional $US 385m. Each train has a maximum speed of 177km/h and features bogies with built-in air-suspension to reduce vibrations and noise emissions.
In December 2018, Caltrain exercised an option to extend the trains from six to seven cars, and ordered another three seven-car trains, as part of the San Francisco - San Jose electrification project.
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