SNCF TGV La Poste
| TGV La Poste | |
|---|---|
TGV postal near Chevry-Cossigny.
|
|
| In service | 1984-2015 |
| Manufacturer | GEC-Alsthom |
| Family name | TGV |
| Number built | 2,5 (new) + 1(converted from SNCF TGV Sud-Est trainset no. 38) |
| Number preserved | 3 + ½ spare set; La Poste is seeking a buyer for the fleet |
| Formation | 10 cars (2 power cars, 8 postal cars) |
| Operator(s) | La Poste |
| Specifications | |
| Train length | 200 m |
| Width | 2.904 m (9 ft 6.3 in) |
| Maximum speed | 270 km/h (168 mph) |
| Power output | 6,800 kW (9,100 hp) @ 25 kV |
| Electric system(s) |
25 kV AC 1500 V DC Catenary |
| Current collection method | Pantograph |
| Safety system(s) | TVM 300/TVM 430 |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) standard gauge |
The SNCF TGV La Poste (TGV-Postes) trains were built by Alstom between 1978–1986. These TGV units are essentially TGV Sud-Est trainsets that are modified for transporting mail for the French postal carrier La Poste. The top speed is 270 km/h (168 mph), making them the fastest freight trains in the world.
5 half-trainsets were built, numbered 1-5. A further two, numbered 6 and 7, were converted from former TGV-SE trainset no. 38. Each half-trainset consists of a power car and four intermediate-trailers.
In 2009, La Poste reduced services from 8 to 6 daily round trips.
On 21 March 2012 a demonstration freight train ran to London St Pancras International, but there was no follow-up.
In mid-2015, La Poste ended TGV postal services, shifting mail services to swap bodies instead. The final service was on 27 June 2015 between Cavaillon (Marseilles) and Charolais (Paris).
In December 2016, La Poste dismantled 3 trainsets. The company SME (Société Métallurgique d'Epernay) was in charge of this operation.
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