Engineering tests performed on the X2000 and ICE high speed trainsets

In 1992 and 1993, Amtrak evaluated two European high-speed trainsets in the Northeast Corridor, between Washington and New York, at speeds up to 162 mph (261 km/h). The X2000, a tilt-body train from Sweden, and the German InterCityExpress (ICE) were extensively evaluated to gain first-hand experience with state-of-the-art, high-speed trains on American track. The knowledge and experience realized from this program will be used to create a specification for an impending order for new trainsets. This paper discusses the test program and the preliminary groundwork necessary to perform these tests including waivers from the Federal Regulations. An overview of the engineering evaluations performed on both trainsets is presented, as well as a description of each of the major tests, along with the results