TriMet TV Episode 30 · June 3, 2009 · 1:55 · Download (18.7MB M4V)

MAX: The Next Generation

22 new MAX Light Rail vehicles are joining the TriMet fleet. Not only do they have a sleek new look, they offer more seating, improved safety features, better mileage and a smoother ride.

Text transcript of this episode

The next generation of MAX has arrived!

Fresh from the factory, 22 new light rail vehicles are joining the TriMet fleet. Not only do they have a sleek new look, they offer more seating, improved safety features, better mileage and a smoother ride.

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

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 7 feet longer than older MAX vehicles. And each car has only 1 operator cab, so you'll always see two of them coupled together.

On board, there's space for 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.

The floor plan has a more "open" feel and helps improve visibility on board. 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.

To learn more about the next generation of MAX, or to share your comments, visit us online at trimet.org/max.

Talk to us

Got a suggestion or comment about TriMet TV? Tell us at tv@trimet.org.