Caltrain riders can experience the electrified future thanks to Caltrain’s Virtual Reality Tour of its new electric trains, currently being assembled in Utah.
The immersive experience offers a first-hand look at the new high-performance trains, known as Electrical Multiple Units (EMUs) that will go into service when electrification of the Caltrain corridor is completed. Viewers can experience the look and feel of the new trains and see the enhanced amenities they have to offer including new digital onboard displays and power sources at each forward-facing seat. The experience also features the new seat color palette selected by the public, energy-efficient lighting, coat hooks, security cameras, and expanded storage under the cantilevered seats. Additionally, viewers can select to “ride” the train at night or during the day.
An interactive map, allows viewers to navigate through the upper, mid, and lower areas of three different cars. The new bike car is on display, its design incorporates public feedback and work with the Caltrain Bicycle Advisory Committee and Citizens Advisory Committee. Viewers can even visit the new bathroom designed with feedback from the Caltrain Accessibility Committee, complete with a baby changing station, coat hooks, and a vacuum toilet that saves energy and reduces odor.
Caltrain is offering a limited edition VR Viewer for those looking for an enhanced virtual experience. Instructions on how to request a viewer can be found here.
The Caltrain Electrification project is a key component of the Caltrain Modernization Program that will electrify the corridor from the San Francisco Caltrain Station at 4th and King Streets to approximately the Tamien Station in San Jose, replacing diesel-hauled trains with electric trains. Electrification will improve Caltrain’s system performance, enable more frequent and/or faster train service and minimize long-term environmental impact by reducing noise, improving regional air quality and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
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About Caltrain: Owned and operated by the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board, Caltrain provides commuter rail service from San Francisco to San Jose, with commute service to Gilroy. While the Joint Powers Board assumed operating responsibilities for the service in 1992, the railroad celebrated 150 years of continuous passenger service in 2014. Planning for the next 150 years of Peninsula rail service, Caltrain is on pace to electrify the corridor, reduce diesel emissions by 97 percent by 2040 and add more service to more stations.
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