Caltrain welcomes first riders on new electric trains

Last week, Caltrain debuted its electric fleet for commuter-rail service with a VIP tour and train rides. The event was attended by federal, state and local officials, as well as transportation, business and labor leaders.

On Aug. 11, the electric trains were operated in their first regular service. Additional electric trains will be introduced every week until the launch of the new schedule and full electrified service between San Francisco and San Jose, California, on Sept. 21, Caltrain officials said in a news release.

Express service will allow commuters to travel between San Francisco and San Jose in under an hour. The new trains will also increase service by 20% since they can accelerate and decelerate much faster than diesel trains, Caltrain officials said.

“The electrification of our railroad has been a goal for decades, and it has taken a tremendous effort to make it happen,” said Caltrain Chair Dev Davis. “I am delighted for the public to finally see the future of Caltrain for themselves."