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California one step closer to purchasing next-gen trains

14/09/2023

Author: By Mankirat Kaur

The California High-Speed Rail Authority's Board of Directors has approved the release of what’s known as a ‘Request for Qualifications’ for the nation's first 350km/h electrified high-speed trainsets, a crucial step towards bringing a high-speed rail service to California.

The project could see the authority spend up to an estimated $661 million for this procurement.

The trains will feature cutting-edge interior design, expected to create an enjoyable experience for all passengers through a variety of seating and functional zones and amenities, diverse audio and visual information systems, and intuitive, accessibility-first design. The latest in sustainable interior concepts should also be found in the California trains by the time they come into service as California continues to try to lead the USA’s green revolution.  

A spokesperson for The California High-Speed Rail Authority said that, ‘We are 100% Buy America compliant and only electrified steel-wheel-to-rail trainsets capable of 220 mph will be under consideration. Suppliers will be borne out through the procurement process’.