Caltrain Diesel Fleet to Bring Passenger Rail Service to Peru

An official solicitation process was initiated to find a new home for this long-serving equipment. Lima, Peru expressed its desire to acquire all of the retired fleet. Following negotiations with the government of Lima, Caltrain has finalized an agreement that will transfer 90 retired gallery cars and 19 diesel locomotives to Peru. Caltrain will be reimbursed over $6 million for the retired vehicles.

The agreement between Caltrain and Lima will support Peru in its sustainability and mobility improvements. The retired trains will enable thousands of riders to enjoy a new regional commuter rail line that provides significant environmental benefits by reducing automobile traffic and greenhouse gas emissions.

The U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAMQD) supported this agreement for its environmental and mobility benefits, and for its ability to strengthen ties between the United States and Peru.

In September, Caltrain launched its new electrified schedule, transforming the 160-year-old San Francisco to San Jose rail corridor from diesel to electric power. Caltrain is currently running 100% renewable, zero-emission service with high-performance, state-of-the-art electric trains. Caltrain riders now enjoy faster, more frequent, and quieter trains. Significant ridership growth has occurred with the introduction of the new service and experience.

As part of the Caltrain electrification project, these gallery car and diesel locomotive fleet were formally retired. This equipment was built between 1985 and 1987. They served millions of riders throughout nearly 40 years of service and have supported the growth of Caltrain and the surrounding region over the years. Caltrain recently received a waiver from the BAAQMD allowing it to keep the locomotives in operation rather than being scrapped.