Double-decker trains

[SteveD]

Here in Belgium, the use of double-decker trains is becoming more and more widespread. These trains are also used in France and Italy (and probably several other European countries). Is it true that they cannot be introduced in the UK because the tunnels and bridges are too small?

[pinus]

Yes They are widely used in The Netherlands, where the rolling stock had to be redesigned because the Dutch are so tall.

[sddsddean]

Go here gor a bit about them. http://www.therailwaycentre.com/Recognition%20Tech%20Data%20 EMU/EMU_DD.html
I remember them being very unpopular with the commuters, as they were stuffy, crowded and it took ages to get on and off.

[SteveD]

But that was 56 years ago! The trains here seem very bright and airy and I haven't heard of any problems. Here is a picture of a german one: http://img76.exs.cx/img76/8261/DDTrain.jpg

[sddsddean]

I think the problem is Steve that they are remembered as being useless.If a modern design was introduced, commuters would shun it on the principle, it was crap then, it will be crap now!

[sddsddean]

Just looked at the photo and realised something else. On European railways the platform is at rail level. In the UK the platform is about 4 feet above the track, so you couldn't use the design in the photo of a low body slung between the bogies. This is why a UK version would have very cramped headroom.

[SteveD]

Here, the floor of the carriage is NOT at the level of the platform. I would guess it's about the same height as UK trains. If the system is crap, why are European ralway companies introducing this rolling stock everywhere?

[pinus]

1 The European loading gauge is greater than that in the UK. 2 In The Netherlands, when you enter the carriage, you go down about four steps to the lower deck and up about five steps for the upper deck