Hi Everyone, Does any one know what the Colorado Railcar is? There is talk of a new type of rail car that may be coming to the Hiawatha Service serving the Milwaukee-Chicago corridor. Amtrak has issued a request for proposals for new train sets, with the RFP based on the Colorado Railcar design
Thanks Bill
Posted by M190 (Member # 3009) on :
It's called the DMU manufactured by Colorado Railcar. I like to call it "Son of RDC". http://www.coloradorailcar.com/ Posted by Nasscarr1720 (Member # 2060) on :
Thanks M190 for the info. Well they look kinda nice. Has anyone ever taken a ride on one of these? Whear are they used. I wounder how they would work for Amtrak?
[This message has been edited by Nasscarr1720 (edited 04-21-2004).]
Posted by Geoff Mayo (Member # 153) on :
Talking from a UK perspective, where these railcars are the norm in non-electrified areas, they suit the job perfectly. Some aren't keen on the diesel engine under the car but then it's not really that much of a problem - many find it soothing and it actually sends them to sleep! There are no fumes as they are vented above the car.
Operationally, a cab at either end means no run-rounds, no wye-ing, and thus quick turn-around times at terminals. They can be connected in multiple, thus allowing longer trains.
Cheaper to run as the train is powered adequately rather than massively overpowered, like the Danbury loco + 2 coaches.
Journey times are anything from a few minutes to an 8 hour run. Obviously the longer runs tend to have a better service quality, such as more comfortable seats and a small shop or trolley onboard.
Geoff M.
Posted by notelvis (Member # 3071) on :
quote:Originally posted by Nasscarr1720: Thanks M190 for the info. Well they look kinda nice. Has anyone ever taken a ride on one of these? Whear are they used. I wounder how they would work for Amtrak?
[This message has been edited by Nasscarr1720 (edited 04-21-2004).]
I understand that the prototype DMU tested quite well over a couple or three weeks, maybe longer, in commuter service on Florida's Tri-Rail (Miami-Ft. Lauderdale) route.
North Carolina's Triangle Transit Authority has looked into the DMU for possible use on the Raleigh-Durham service they are working on as well. I don't know if any test runs have been made in North Carolina and I've not heard from anyone who has ridden it.
Still, it looks like a nice vehicle and I certainly would like to see them in service if their efficiency ultimately means more passenger service.....or prevents the further erosion of US passenger service.
------------------ David Pressley
Posted by MPALMER (Member # 125) on :
A Colorado railcar was on display several months back in Fullerton. I believe it also went for a run locally but I did not ride it; I beleieve some of the others on this board rode it, though.
Large window area great for looking outside but could be rather warm under direct sun.
[This message has been edited by MPALMER (edited 04-21-2004).]
------------------ Sing to the tune of Humoresque: Passengers will please refrain, From flushing toilets while the train, Is standing in the station, I love you.
I'm couriace(I dont know the rite way thats spelled and dont care anyway) to see what Paint Sheame Amtrak woud paint a DMU like that
------------------ JONATHON D. ORTIZ
Posted by Mr. Toy (Member # 311) on :
CURIOUS (because I care about your edyookayshun.) Posted by Nasscarr1720 (Member # 2060) on :
Mr Toy, Great report. It sure help me understand what they may be bringing to Milwaukee. Great photos to. What kind of camera did you use?
Posted by Nasscarr1720 (Member # 2060) on :
After doing a little more research on my states DOT sight I found out that one of the DMU car was hear in Milwaukee open to the public. I did not even hear about it.. Hear is the link if anyone would like to read about it. Bill http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/news/news/2003general/opa-coloradorail410.htm Posted by Geoff Mayo (Member # 153) on :
There are unsubstantiated reports that it will be on the Princeton to Princeton Jnc shuttle over the next few days, under test by NJT.
Geoff M.
Posted by 20th Century (Member # 2196) on :
I saw the Colorado railcar from a distance at Philadelphia's 30th St. Station on Friday, April 16 when I was on train #95 traveling to Washington D.C..
Posted by Mr. Toy (Member # 311) on :
quote:Originally posted by Nasscarr1720: Mr Toy, Great report.....Great photos to. What kind of camera did you use?
Thanks. Canon S-50 digital. Better than film, IMHO.
Thanks Mr. Toy for the info on the Canon S-50 digital camera. I am a photographer also but still use film. I am slowly moving to digital. I shoot mostly weddings. Last year I did buy a nice digital video camera.
