What makes Talgo cruise? Here's a low-down

(This story originally appeared in on Sep 10, 2016)

The final trial of high-speed Talgo coaches on Delhi-Mumbai route at 150 kmph is scheduled for today. Test runs of the Spanish bogies have, so far, produced encouraging results, a clear indication of their technological superiority over conventional coaches used by Indian Railways. Here's a low-down:

LENGTH
Conventional 22 MTS
Talgo 13 MTS

This means about 35 Talgo cars will be required to maintain the passenger load of a regular 20-coach train.
Advantages: Smaller coach, better manoeuvrability.

ENERGY EFFICIENT
TALGO'S CLAIM: 30% less power consumption

WEIGHT
Conventional 50TON (made up of steel) Talgo 17TON (aluminium)

AMENITIES
♦Footrests
♦Reading lights
♦Audio entertainment control
♦Revolving seats

AXLES: EXISTING COACH
Each has four wheel sets TALGO Single axle with independent wheels

The technology allows a Talgo train to move at high speed on curves, something similar to thrill rides on tracks at amusement parks. This cuts down chances of derailment

GAUGE: EXISTING COACH
Since they have a fixed wheel base, the bogies can be used only on tracks with a specified gauge TALGO Adjustable wheel base. This means a Talgo train can be operated on different tracks

SUSPENSIONS: CONVENTIONAL COACHES
No tilting technology TALGO Air suspension with natural carbody tilting technology - the lighter superstructure can tilt without putting pressure on the wheels. Also, there is suspension between coaches, which are placed very close to each other

WHY TALGO FOR TRIALS?
Unlike many other coach-makers, the Spanish firm offered to run the coaches in as-is condition in India. This means no changes in tracks, number of stoppages or manpower during the tests.

DELHI-MUM RAJDHANI EXPRESS
Top Speed 130 kmph Time taken 15 hrs 50 minutes

TALGO ON TRIAL (9 COACHES)