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Home > Archives > LRC trainset in Richmond, Va., 1981.

LRC trainset in Richmond, Va., 1981.

Color photograph showing a LRC trainset at the Richmond-Staples Mill, Va., station; dates to 1981.

LRC trainset in Richmond, Va., 1981.

In early 1977, Amtrak agreed to lease two high-speed trainsets designed by the Canadian team of Bombardier, Alcan and Dofasco. Known as "Light, Rapid, Comfortable" - or "LRC" for short - the Amtrak trainsets each included one 16 cylinder, 3725 hp diesel-electric locomotive, four 84-seat coaches and a club car. The lightweight trains were designed to reach speeds up to 125 mph on existing rail infrastructure; tilt technology allowed them to take curves at faster speeds than conventional equipment.

Amtrak employed the trainsets in revenue service on the Northeast Corridor from 1980-1982. Here, a LRC trainset makes a stop at the Richmond-Staples Mill, Va., station. Following expiration of the lease, the LRCs were returned to the manufacturer.

Photographer: Doug Riddell.