By Railfan & Railroad Staff

Brightline announced last week that Siemens Mobility has been selected as the “preferred bidder” to build ten trainsets for its Las Vegas to Southern California high-speed service expected to begin in 2028. The train will be dubbed the “American Pioneer 220” and will be the nation’s first passenger train that will reach speeds of more than 200 miles per hour. 

The announcement came just weeks after Brightline broke ground on the $12 billion project. Siemens also provided the trains that Brightline uses on its service in Florida. 

“Just as we redefined train travel with our trainsets for Brightline Florida, we are excited to pioneer this new frontier of manufacturing and development for Brightline West,” said Brightline CEO Michael Reininger. “The momentum we are building will culminate in new jobs and a new supply chain that will establish the foundation for a high-speed rail industry from coast to coast.”

The American Pioneer 220, or AP220s, will be based on Seimens’ Velaro product currently used in Europe. The trainsets will be able to travel at 220 miles per hour and will be compatible with those that will be built for the California High-Speed Rail Authority.

The seven-car trains will carry between 434 and 450 passengers, depending on final configuration, and make the trip between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, Calf. in less than two hours.

Siemens will also maintain the trains for 30 years at a facility to be built in Sloan, Nevada.