Czech Republic - trains - transport
Final tests for world's fastest train
Friday 08 August 2008
After setting the world rail speed record last year, French manufacturer Alstom's AGV train is undergoing a series of trial runs in the Czech countryside before it is sold to international clients.
Friday 08 August 2008
By Alexis RosenzweigThis is the fastest train in the world, with a record speed of 574,8km/h. It is being tested these days in the
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The only problem on the Czech track is the invading presence of wild animals. The train was fitted with ultra-sound whistles to scare them away and a special bumper to minimise risks.
In Velim, French engineers work with Czech drivers. Until the trial runs in September, several customers are scheduled to come and take a tour of the train. NTV, the Italian company that ordered the first 25 AGVs, is one of them. Its trains will be delivered in 2011.
08/08/2008 18:58:26 Alert a moderator
Big Advantages of Double-Wide Rail
By George Zivan - USA
In my previous letter, I forgot to mention an important benefit of having double-wide rail lines. SAFETY. Double-Wide rails would provide much greater stability than today's narrow rails. The wider rails would allow faster speeds, safer turns and even two-story cars!
I know there are drawbacks in the form of having to re-do rail lines, tunnels, etc., but some of the infrastructure will have to start from zero anyway. We may as well re-build in a way that will make a big difference far into the future. Given all the benefits to be derived from having double-wide tracks, I believe most countries will be happy to invest in re-building their existing infrastructure to accomodate the wide trains.
Travel and transport are about more than just speed. We should not think small when we have the capacity to think and build big. Here is a chance to do something of historic significance that will change transport for centuries. If France doesn't introduce this technology, I believe it's just a matter of time before another nation will run away with the honors.
08/08/2008 02:43:32 Alert a moderator
Suggested Improvement for French High Speed Trains
By GZ - USA
I am glad to see France and other European nations embrace high speed trains. However, France is missing a great opportunity by not making the AGV run on a double-wide track. Imagine the revolutionary impact this could have and the HUGE worldwide demand. Wider trains would provide endless possibilities and improvements in both public transport and commercial applications, especially given the continuing rise in energy costs. Finally, people could travel over land in the unequalled comfort and luxury offered by the wider cars. You might even have "Land Cruise Lines" offering theatres and casinos and romantic adventures. The double-wide cars would make current rail lines obsolete and would put France in the forefront of a whole new industry. Vive La France!!!