Ever since its completion in 1864, the California Rail Transit System has connected cities in the San Francisco Peninsula together, allowing commuters to travel efficiently and safely. Historically, these trains have always been diesel-powered, contributing to excess
In 1999, the Caltrain board of directors first referenced a desire to go electric. In 2016, Caltrain introduced a new electric service plan, detailing a switch to quieter and more efficient electric caltrains. This allows for greener transportation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. Additionally, as electric engines produce significantly less noise, the entire ride ends up being much quieter and more peaceful than before.
In September, Caltrain completed its electrification project, converting all trains operating from San José to San Francisco. The new trains are built by the Swiss company Stadler, and have a series of new amenities which improve rider experiences — in addition to their cleaner fuel source.
These changes include a new accessible restroom, power outlets at every fixed seat, and digital screens showing the train’s location. There are also more booth-style seats, which allows for groups of four to sit facing each other. Traveling on the new train, it is clear that these changes are appreciated, with Veritas seeing that more individuals utilized booth seats compared to single seats.
To power these trains, a major part of the new electric system is a new 25,000-volt overhead contact system that connects to a metal pantograph on top of the train, which provides consistent power without a battery.
In an interview with Veritas, Dan Lieberman, Caltrain’s public information officer, explained some of the key safety improvements brought by the electrification project. “One of the big changes is the integration of Positive Train Control (PTC),” Lieberman said. “It’s an extra layer of protection, a software system that tracks where trains are and helps prevent human error.” Recently mandated for trains in the USA, PTC ensures that trains are always where they need to be, so that they can be tracked for safety purposes.
In addition to PTC, Lieberman explained that Caltrain is exploring the use of artificial intelligence to detect trespassers on tracks more quickly, an issue that has long posed safety concerns. While these AI tools are still in the exploratory phase, they represent Caltrain’s commitment to advancing safety measures.
When asked about safety issues concerning the new overhead contact system, Lieberman explained that the 25,000-volt lines are elevated 22 feet above the tracks to limit access. “We also maintain a proactive approach with tree trimming and inspections to prevent disruptions from fallen branches or other hazards,” Lieberman said. Safety protocols, combined with enforcement and public education campaigns, are designed to mitigate risks associated with the new system.
With the current trains, Caltrain claims that this switch to electric not only increases the comfort of riders, but also saves a lot of time. The new and improved electric engines can also accelerate and decelerate much faster, reducing travel time by up to 25%.
Passengers noted that they were noticeable in both the interior of the trains and the ride quality.
“It’s nicer, [and] it’s a smoother ride,” Burlingame resident Sarah Maddox said. “… it’s nice and clean.”
A Caltrain employee shared similar feedback.
“The ride is more comfortable and less noisy. I love it,” said one employee, who has worked for Caltrain for the past 23 years and wished to remain anonymous.
However the system still poses some issues with the electric trains. Since the new trains only operate in areas with the overhead contact system, riders in Southern Santa Clara County and Gilroy will continue to take diesel Caltrains, as these tracks are owned by Union Pacific, and not electrified under their current agreement. Passengers from these stations will continue taking diesel trains to San José station, where they will switch to the electric trains. Caltrain claims this will be temporary, and in 2023 received an $80 million grant from the California State Transport Agency to purchase a battery equipped train. This train would charge on the overhead system, and use battery power south of San Jose Diridon station — becoming the first “bi-level” hybrid train in the USA.
