Brightline has set a new record for operating the fastest train in Florida and the Southeastern US after reaching speeds of 130 miles per hour.
This achievement took place while completing testing along Brightline’s new 35-mile corridor between Orlando International Airport and Cocoa.
By reaching 130mph, the operator has broken its previous record of 110mph, which was set last year between Martin and St. Lucie Counties.
“Reaching 130 isn’t just another milestone to our team, but the continuation of a dream that we’ve been working towards for several years. More importantly, this historic feat brings us one step closer to launching Brightline service between Orlando and Miami.”
Brightline trains in South Florida currently operate at 79mph. On the Orlando Extension from West Palm Beach to Cocoa, this will be increased to 110mph, and from Cocoa to Orlando International Airport, they will be able to travel at 125mph.
Once it opens later this year, the Orlando Station will provide a rail connection between Orlando and Miami, which are two of the most congested city pairs in the nation.
The Brightline train sets for this route were manufactured at the Siemens Rolling Stock Facility in Sacramento, California and are powered by two locomotives with 16-cylinder, 4,000 hp Cummins EPA Tier-IV compliant diesel-electric engines.
“Florida has always been at the forefront of train travel since the days when Henry Flagler connected Jacksonville to the Keys. Back then, there were reports that trains ran at 100 mph, but no one ever dreamed of reaching 130 mph. Brightline dreamed big and did it. History has been made and Henry Flagler would be proud.”
