About Amtrak Cascades

Quick Facts:

In 2008, 774,421 passengers rode Amtrak Cascades®—a 14.4 percent increase over 2007. Ridership for 2008 was the highest ever since the inception of the service 10 years ago. Ridership for 2007 is the second highest.
Amtrak Cascades locomotives feature low-emission production, computer-controlled fuel injection, an aerodynamic body style for low drag, and a specially designed cab to insulate the crew from noise and vibration.
The European-style trains are sleek, modern, and feature distinctive evergreen and cappuccino hues on a cream background.
Panoramic windows and natural tones inside the train are designed to showcase the spectacular Pacific Northwest views.
Hidden beneath the 7-foot-tall tail fins at both ends of the train are baggage and service cars (they supply the electricity and lights).

The unique style of the locomotive can push or pull Amtrak Cascades trains. When trains reach the end of their route, crews turn passenger seats around and the train heads back the way it came, without having to turn the trainset around.
Amtrak Cascades trains are designed for high-speed rail service (current track and safety systems limit the trains to a top speed of 79 mph).
Amtrak Cascades trains feature a special technology that uses gravity to tilt through curves while speed is maintained. This technology shortens current travel between Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, by 25 minutes.
Each Amtrak Cascades train typically consists of 12 cars and seats approximately 250 passengers, with space for four mobility-impaired passengers.
Amtrak Cascades trains are built by Talgo, General Motors, and Pacifica Marine.