Tilting Trains (Pendolino) Explained

Tilting Trains (Pendolino) Explained
November 24, 2025 4:57 pm
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Quick Definition: Tilting Train

A Tilting Train is designed with a mechanism that tilts the carriages into the curve of the track, similar to a motorcyclist leaning into a turn. This allows the train to travel 20-30% faster on regular curved tracks without causing discomfort to passengers.

The most famous example is the Pendolino family developed by Fiat (now Alstom). It was a game-changer for countries like the UK, Italy, and Switzerland where building new straight high-speed lines was too difficult due to geography.

How it Works

  • Sensors: Detect the curve ahead.
  • Hydraulics: Actuators tilt the car body by up to 8 degrees.
  • Result: Centrifugal force is counteracted, so your coffee doesn’t spill even at high speeds.