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Posted by
Easy
on Tue Apr 22 22:07:29 2008
edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr fiogf49gjkf0d More powerful and less emissions. About half are going to Orange County where they'll be tripling the current service level. In the next few years Orange County will be increasing to 30 minute headways all day long.
Metrolink debuts its first 'green' locomotive
The train is one of 15 that will be integrated into the fleet; OC system to see seven of those trains.
By ELLYN PAK
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Metrolink unveiled on Tuesday its first "green" locomotive, one of 15 that will eventually be incorporated into the system's commuter-train fleet.
"This is sort of the train-version of a hybrid car that shuts itself off when it's not moving," said Metrolink spokeswoman Denise Tyrrell. "The number one thing for us that we feel will be a major, major component is that this locomotive can pull 10 cars."
Ten-feet longer than current Metrolink locomotives, the new energy-efficient locomotive will carry 1,200 more passengers and have the ability to pull 10 cars. Currently, a Metrolink train can pull about six cars.
Metrolink unveiled the new, two-story locomotive Tuesday, which is currently sitting at Taylor Yard in Los Angeles. Metrolink purchased a set of 15 at $1.9 million each.
The new train boasts low-emissions, emitting about 42 percent less nitrogen oxides and 70 percent less carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. An automatic engine stop-start technology built into the train also reduces idling emissions, Tyrrell said.
The Orange County Transportation Authority purchased seven of the 15 locomotives for $21 million total, which includes a fee for spare parts and other costs, said Joel Zlotnik, an OCTA spokesman.
The new trains will be staggered into the system as they are delivered over the next 15 months. OCTA will integrate all of the new locomotives by 2010 as part of the agency's plan to expand Metrolink service. Older locomotives will be pulled from service and revamped to clean standards.
Orange County's Metrolink network includes 11 stations, with plans to build another one in Placentia.
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