THE TGV: A TECHNICALLY OPTIMISED SYSTEM

The success of the French TGV is considered . A number of different factors are thought to be involved, one of the most important of which is product design and its suitability to meeting market demand. Of particular importance has been a high degree of technical optimisation giving high standards of speed, reliability and operating costs. Ways in which efficiency has been ensured are discussed including integration with conventional lines and dedication to passenger travel. Also important has been progress in the design of component parts. Examples cited include rail to sleeper fastenings, advances in pantographic design, weight reductions in rolling stock, improvements to suspension and the use of computers. Continuing progress in TGV development for speeds of up to 400kph is outlined. This paper was presented at the EURAILSPEED 92 conference held in Brussels, April 27-29, 1992. For the covering abstract see IRRD 853180.