So what is the fastest train? Well there are actually a number of answers to that questions. For example, the fastest train on rails is the French TGV (VT150) that recently set a record of 574.8 kph (357.2 mph) on April 3, 2007. While this train actually had passengers when it set the record you will never see a scheduled TGV train ever doing those types of speeds. Here is a video to enjoy of the historic TGV speed run. Now the fastest passenger train is not on rails but rather maglev. The Shanghai China maglev train traveling between Pudong international airport and downtown Shanghai can reach a top speed of 430kph (267mph) in just under two minutes. Not too shabby. The Byun Byun Shinkansen website (an absolutely great site on everything Shinkansen related) has a nice listing of the fastest trains by type.
Rapido Trains has started production on their HO scale model of the United Aircraft TurboTrain. According to the Rapido website production has begun with delivery of the train sets coming soon. The models are available for pre-order via the website at a price of $499.95 (ouch) which includes two engines and a coach car. Additional cars are available for $39.95 each. For the CN and VIA trains, they are offering special Turbo TwoPacks – a TurboClub and TurboCafe car together for a reduced price of $69.95. The trains can be ordered in the following color schemes:
Posted in HO Scale, TurboTrain | Tagged HO Scale, Rapido, TurboTrain | Leave a Comment »
This site is dedicated to the wonderful world of high speed trains both past and present. It is intended to be a place to discuss news related to prototype trains as well as the modeling hobby. I hope you will find this site informative, fun, and hopefully inspiring.
Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
