The fashion forecast for Fall 2008 is modern, sleek, and sexy.
That's right. TriMet is pimping your ride with 22 new Siemens "S70/Avanto" light rail vehicles. This model is currently used in Houston, Texas; San Diego, California; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Paris, France.
An improved interior layout leaves space for eight more seats per train plus additional standing room. While existing MAX trains can carry up to 428 riders, the new trains will be able to carry 464.
Comfort and safety upgrades
A new rear-view camera system will enhance the operator's field of vision and help improve visibility at night. The cameras have sensors that switch from color to black-and-white in low-light conditions. The new trains are expected to brake and stop more smoothly than existing MAX trains. The new trains have modern, aerodynamic styling with rounded corners and a sloping front end. Trains will be about seven feet longer, but will still fit within existing MAX stations. And they will 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 and an open interior design for better safety and visibility
* automated station announcements and rider information on readerboards
Read the article about the new MAX cars in today's Portland Tribune.
Are they going to be the background for advertising?