New York City Transit Authority´s new technology test train program

The New York City Transit Authority (NYCTA) has awarded contracts for the design and development of two test trains: a 10-(51´) car train and a 9-(67´) car train. These trains will incorporate the latest technological innovations in rapid transit vehicle design. The innovations include variable-voltage, variable-frequency (VVVF) AC inverters to drive AC traction motors, microprocessor-controlled brake and propulsion systems, a unitized overhead air conditioning system with AC driven components, data bus configuration for information and control transfer between cars, an onboard microprocessor maintenance diagnostic system, digital controlled voice and signage, a passenger information system, lightweight fabricated trucks, and solid-state sensing of door parameters. The design focus is on system maintainability and reliability. The mean distance between service interruption is to be over 100000 miles. The cars are to be delivered by mid-1992, followed by a 14 month performance reliability demonstration program in actual revenue service