Energy intensity of intercity passenger rail. Final report
This research report deals with the Energy Intensity of Intercity Rail Passenger Systems. Included in the energy evaluation are the impacts of operating conditions (speed, load factor) and train consists. The report also documents an extensive list of data used for evaluation purposes. Impact of track on energy intensity is also documented. Several trains are simulated along the New York City-to-Buffalo Corridor. Increases in energy efficiency due to modernization of rolling stock and improvements of track and service conditions are also analyzed to insure equitable comparison among the competitive modes. The study concludes that: presently the energy-intensity figures are high because the load factor is low; there is a considerable potential for improving values by improving the attractiveness (reduced trip time) of the trains and also by using contemporary rolling stock. It is also concluded that presently, because of the poor track conditions, the maximum potential of the trains (in terms of speed, etc.) cannot be realized. Improved track conditions will enhance block speed which would results in increased rail patronage (consequently, higher load factor) and reduced energy intensity. Electric trains were also studied (along NYC to Washington, D.C.) and are quite favorable from an energy-intensity viewpoint. The study provides guidelines for energy conservation, will serve the railroad industry, and has a potential for nationwide application.
- Research Organization:
- Department of Transportation, Washington, DC (USA). Office of Univ. Research
- OSTI ID:
- 6300399
- Report Number(s):
- DOT/RSPD/DPB-50-78/7
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Demand for intercity rail travel: a comparison of the British and American experiences
Rail passenger statistics in the Northeast Corridor 1974--1975
Related Subjects
298000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Consumption & Utilization
32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320202* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Transportation-- Railway
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
COMPETITION
DATA
DATA FORMS
EFFICIENCY
ELECTRIC RAILWAYS
ENERGY CONSERVATION
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
EVALUATION
GRAPHS
INFORMATION
MASS TRANSIT SYSTEMS
MID-ATLANTIC REGION
NEW YORK
NEW YORK CITY
NORTH AMERICA
OCCUPANTS
RAILWAYS
RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEMS
TABLES
TRAINS
TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS
URBAN AREAS
USA
VEHICLES
VELOCITY
WASHINGTON DC