Electric Train Tour a Huge Success!

More than 4,200 people came out to see the new electric fleet for the first time, and the excitement was palpable. The gallery car echoed with “Oohs” and “ahhs” as rail fans tested the seats, reveled in the air conditioning and marveled at the many state-of-the-art features they’ll get a chance to enjoy as a part of their commute starting next year. The jubilant crowd also took advantage of food trucks and a live DJ as they awaited their turn to get on board the train of tomorrow. Thanks again to everyone who came, and for those who missed it, RSVP to the next tour in San Francisco on September 23!

First in the Nation Battery-Powered Electric Trains On the Way

Caltrain received an $80 million award from the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) for a battery-equipped electric multiple unit train (BEMU) that will be operable from San Francisco to Gilroy, even in areas that do not yet have overhead electrified lines. 



The BEMU train, which will be purchased on a contract option with Stadler, is an EMU train with additional energy storage capacity. The BEMU will charge while the train runs on overhead power in the electrified service areas and then use battery charge to travel “off-wire” on non-electrified track areas. This will lead the way for Caltrain to operate a fully zero-emission service in the future. Before this option, Caltrain would have had to use diesel trains on the non-electrified corridor.

New Fare Promotions Available September 1

Caltrain is introducing four new temporary fare products designed to give riders more options as to how they travel, making it easier to save money by using Caltrain.  

• The $1 Youth Pass provides one-way rides for merely a dollar
• The Three Day Pass offers passholders unlimited rides for three days immediately upon purchase, a great option for the hybrid commuter working three days during the week. 
• The Family Day Pass allows two adults and up to four youths to ride together for the cost of two adults and one youth. 
• The Group Day Pass allows a group of four to six people to travel together for 15% off the cost of four tickets. 
• In addition to these fare promotions, Caltrain is also reducing the price of parking at stations by 50%.

Summer of Caltrain Brings Ice Cream, Painting and Trivia to Caltrain

The Summer of Caltrain is coming to an end, but it was amazing! Caltrain continued to celebrate our riders with fun activities on board and at stations. On August 2, the Burlingame Station played host to a free painting class, where 20 or so riders came to enjoy the scenic station and paint one of the new electric trains. For those with a sweet tooth, Mr. Softee made an appearance at San Jose Diridon Station, providing free ice cream to all comers. And Caltrain closed out the month with a trivia night at Spark Social SF, where railfans came out to compete for the best swag in the Bay. 

Caltrain to Celebrate Transit Month

September is Transit Month, so we hope to see you on board! There’s no better opportunity to get out and explore your community through the convenience of transit. Make plans to hop on a Caltrain and go where your heart takes you, and remember Caltrain connects with SamTrans, Muni, VTA and AC Transit, so wherever you want to go, Caltrain can help you get there.

Changes to Fares Coming Soon

On September 21, Caltrain held a meeting on its fare structure. The discussion focused on the updated timeline for delaying fare increases until FY 2026 and the lowering of Go Pass pricing. These changes will come before the Board for adoption at its September meeting.