New trains arrive for the Rancagua - Santiago service
The Rancagua - Estación Central service transported more than 7.5 million passengers during 2023. This represents an increase of 24% compared to 2022.
The three new trains that will join the six already in service on the Rancagua - Santiago line were unloaded this morning.
The Rancagua - Estación Central service transported more than 7.5 million passengers during 2023. This represents an increase of 24% compared to 2022.
One of the main goals for 2024 is to increase that number.
These trains will complement the fleet in order to transport a greater number of passengers and improve the itinerary.
Characteristics of and investment in the trains that will enhance the Rancagua - Santiago route
The trains were unloaded in the port of San Antonio to join the Rancagua - Santiago service. They are electric, and involved an investment of US$17.5 million.
The trains were made by the CRRC-Sifang Corporation, a railway operator of Chinese origin. The company manufactured the 16 new trains that are in operation in the Biobío and La Araucanía regions, in addition to the six that currently operate between Rancagua and Estación Central.
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This rolling stock is made up of three carriages, with two motor cars – one at each end – and a trailer in the middle. The trains also have:
- A maximum operating speed of 140 kilometers per hour, allowing the trains to complete the journey between Rancagua and Estación Central in 65 minutes, with stops at all stations.
- A capacity of more than 700 people on board, with 314 seated passengers.
Among the main features are insulated glass and polycarbonate windows, which allow for greater thermal and acoustic insulation and resistance.
With regard to safety, the trains have anti-crash devices, which absorb energy in the event of an impact from programmed deformation, and anti-climbers to protect passengers and crew in the event of collisions.
With regard to passenger amenities, the trains have a complete user information system via interior and exterior display screens, a public address system with noise sensors, which adapts to ambient noise, and a digital route map with service information such as timetables, next stops and temperature. They also have closed-circuit surveillance and monitoring, as well as spaces for people with reduced mobility.