ETR.401 | TrainsDepot.org

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ETR.401

Also known as:

ETR Y 0160-000

Vehicle type:

Electric multiple unit - EMU

Registration country:

Italy

Railway companies:

FS - Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane

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Era:

IV - V

Built by:

Fiat Railway

Gauge:

Standard gauge (1'435 mm)

Electric systems:

3 kV DC

Current collectors:

Pantograph - Symmetrical

Length over buffers (mm):

105'900 mm*
*entire unit
26'900 mm*
*BA head element
24'700 mm*
*BB & BC intermediate elements

Width (mm):

2'750 mm

Height (mm | over lowered pantograph):

3'297 mm

Tare weight (t):

161 t

Maximum speed (km/h):

250 km/h

Total number of seats (1st class seats / 2nd class seats / 3rd class seats / folding seats):

171x 1st class seats*
*entire unit

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Vehicle's history

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1967

The ETR.401, or Elettrotreno FS ETR.401, is a variable gauge electric train developed by the Ferrovie dello Stato (FS) and is notable for being the first rapid train in the world with an active tilting body, entering commercial service in 1976. The project originated in 1967 when engineer Paolino Camposano presented a proposal for a variable gauge train at an international transport conference in Genoa. Following initial interest, FIAT Divisione Materiale Ferroviario, under Professor Franco Di Majo, published a preliminary design by the end of the same year. In May 1970, the FS allocated funds for the ETR.401's development and construction, marking the beginning of its construction.

However, due to the economic crisis and political uncertainties of the early 1970s, the project faced significant downsizing, ultimately resulting in the ETR.401 being a unique prototype, completed in 1976.

The ETR.401 was designed to enhance maximum operating speeds on existing winding railway lines without necessitating extensive infrastructure investments. Its active tilting mechanism allowed it to traverse curves at higher speeds safely, a feature inspired by various international efforts to improve train performance during the 1950s and 1960s. Following the decision made by the FS board on May 11, 1970, the development included creating the experimental automotrice Y 0160, which incorporated all the ETR.401's essential characteristics, enabling a systematic testing program that continued until 1975 alongside the train's construction.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

1975

The first traction unit*, consisting of a driving car and an intermediate car with a pantograph, made its debut from the Savigliano factory on June 26th, 1975, and underwent extensive trials throughout the summer. On October 2nd, 1975, it was presented to international railway officials during the 21st International Congress of Railways. The second traction unit followed on March 26th, 1976. The two units were officially combined to form the ETR.401 on April 8th, 1976, and it was assigned to the Rome San Lorenzo depot on May 10th, 1976.

The unit is composed of 4 elements:
2x head elements - BA;
1x intermediate 1st class coach - BB;
1x intermediate 1st class coach with an integrated bar and kitchen - BB.
Thus, these are coupled as follows: BA + BB + BC + BA.

Technologically, the ETR.401 was groundbreaking, featuring an active tilting system that allowed the train to lean into curves, enhancing speed and comfort. This mechanism utilized gyroscopes and accelerometers for precise control of tilt, improving stability compared to previous systems. The train utilized lightweight aluminum bodywork, reducing overall weight and improving performance. It also introduced innovative suspension systems, significantly enhancing ride comfort by minimizing vibrations. Furthermore, it employed advanced braking systems, including electromagnetic brake pads, ensuring efficient stopping distances.

Each traction unit is equipped with two traction motors, providing balanced power distribution, and the train features a composite structure of two permanently coupled traction units capable of independent operation when necessary.

NB: The head element of the first traction unit is initially designated as ETR Y 0160-000.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

1976

July 2

The ETR.401 commenced commercial operations on July 2nd, 1976, providing a service connecting Rome and Ancona three times a week, reducing travel time by half an hour compared to conventional rapid trains. Over time, a fourth service was added, and by 1979, the service extended to Rimini. During its operation, conventional substitute vehicles were always on standby to maintain schedules in case of technical failures. The three years of service yielded positive results, with limited technical issues reported. However, as a unique model, the ETR.401 experienced challenges in regular service, often alternating with standard rolling stock during maintenance intervals, which diminished its operational efficiency.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

1983

The ETR.401 continued to run between Rome and Rimini until 1983, when it was withdrawn from active service due to the economic impracticality of maintaining such a unique train that required extensive maintenance resources. Subsequently, it served as a demonstration train, undertaking various tests abroad for different European railway administrations.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

1985

In early 1985, the ETR.401 underwent electrical upgrades focusing on automatic speed control systems. On May 23, 1985, it showcased its capabilities during a demonstration trip between Rome Termini and Chiusi, illustrating its operational advantages, including speeds reaching 255 km/h. The train later served as a laboratory vehicle for developing future high-speed trains, participating in tests across several European countries.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

1995

After completing its overseas missions, the ETR.401 was sent for repairs in 1995, emerging with the XMPR livery and designated for the FS charter fleet, facilitating special and requested services. Notably, it became the first Pendolino to cross the Strait of Messina for a special event. In the following years, it operated special services until being assigned to storage in Ancona.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

2013

The ETR.401's future remained uncertain, although there have been restoration efforts for its 25th anniversary in 2013.

By December 28, 2021, all sections of the train were recovered and transferred for aesthetic and functional restoration, aiming to return it to operational status as a historical vehicle.

Sources: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elettrotreno_FS_ETR.401

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