MAX: The Next Generation

New trains have more seats and a sleeker look

22 new light rail vehicles have joined the TriMet fleet to support the addition of MAX Green Line service as of September 2009. Not only do they have a sleek new look, they offer more seating, improved safety features, better energy efficiency and a smoother ride.

The new trains are a slight variation of the Siemens "S70" light rail vehicles currently in operation in Houston, San Diego and Paris.

What's new

The first thing you'll notice is their aerodynamic styling, with rounded corners and a sloping front end. At roughly 191 feet, they're about seven feet longer than our older MAX vehicles. Each car has only one operator cab, so you'll always see two cars coupled together.

On board, the "open" floor plan leaves more room for riders. There are 8 more seats per train, plus additional standing room. While existing MAX trains were designed to carry up to 332 riders, these can carry 344. Plus, you'll notice a more comfortable ride: When the train stops, it's nice and smooth.

For extra safety, we've added a rear-view camera system. This expands the operator's field of vision, and enhances visibility at night. The cameras have sensors that switch from color to black-and-white in low-light conditions.

And while MAX has always been environmentally friendly, these new trains are more energy efficient than previous models. They're nearly 6,000 pounds lighter, so they don't need as much electricity to operate.

Familiar features

The next-generation trains offer many of the same amenities as today's MAX:

• four doors per side, two of which are equipped with retractable ramps for accessibility
• low floors over 70 percent of the interior for easy boarding
• air conditioning
• interior and exterior surveillance systems
• automated station announcements and rider information on readerboards

Vehicle specifications