News & Reviews News Wire Caltrain sets Sept. 21 date to launch electrified service

Caltrain sets Sept. 21 date to launch electrified service

By Trains Staff | June 11, 2024

| Last updated on June 24, 2024


Final weekend of testing includes running eight trains of electric equipment at once

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Red and white electric multiple-unit trainset under dramatic sunset
After a final weekend of testing that included running eight trains at once, Caltrain has set Sept. 21 as its target date to launch electrified operation between San Francisco and San Jose. Caltrain

SAN CARLOS, Calif. — Caltrain announced plans to launch electrified service on its San Francisco-San Jose service on Sept. 21 after a final weekend of testing that included running eight trains of electric equipment simultaneously, the agency said on Monday.

Electrified operation will see service between San Francisco and San Jose in less than an hour, and increased service both during peak weekday periods and on weekends [see “Caltrain finalizes electrification operating plan,” Trains News Wire, Dec. 12, 2023].

“This weekend’s test has proven that Caltrain is going to be ready to show our riders and the region a new and improved Caltrain,” Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard said in a press release. “I thank our riders for their patience as we completed this necessary construction, and I look forward to September when we can enjoy the benefits of a faster, greener, and quieter Caltrain.”

The eight-train test by Caltrain, equipment manufacturer Stadler, and contractor Balfour Beatty was to stress the electrical power system and simulate full electric multiple-unit train operation. Its successful completion ensures eight trainsets can perform properly under various power configurations, the commuter agency said.

6 thoughts on “Caltrain sets Sept. 21 date to launch electrified service

  1. hope they have properly trained Power Directors or Load Dispatchers to handle problems that will surely pop up.

  2. I always want Caltrain Electrifications and California High-Speed Rail in California and I always love Caltrain Electrifications and California High-Speed Rail in California.

  3. Move over folks! Those gorgeous Stadler KISS EMUs (made proudly in Stadler’s Salt Lake City factory) will be on active, regular duty soon!

    Dr. Güntürk Üstün

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