The Most Reliable Train in the World, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the train you think is the most reliable!
Updated on May 5, 2024 06:56
Determining the most reliable train is a crucial task for anyone who relies on rail travel to navigate busy commutes or enjoy leisure journeys. A train's reliability affects daily schedules, with delays and breakdowns altering plans and increasing travel times unexpectedly. By ranking these trains, those planning trips can better select routes that enhance their travel experience and reduce stress.
This dynamic ranking has been designed to reflect real-time user opinions and experiences, shedding light on which trains consistently meet traveler expectations. Your votes directly influence the rankings, providing an updated guide for potential passengers. Participate today and see how your input contributes to guiding others in making informed decisions about their rail travel options.
What Is the Most Reliable Train in the World?
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161votesAlso known as the bullet train, the Shinkansen has been in operation since 1964 and has an impeccable safety record. It is known for its punctuality, efficiency, and speed.The Japanese Shinkansen, also known as the 'bullet train,' is a high-speed railway system that operates in Japan. It is renowned worldwide for its reliability, punctuality, and safety.
- Speed: Maximum operating speed of around 320 km/h (200 mph).
- Punctuality: Average delay of fewer than 1 minute.
- Safety: Zero fatal accidents in its history of operations.
- Comfort: Spacious seating, smooth ride, and low noise levels.
- Efficiency: High-frequency departures and minimal travel times between stations.
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29votes
WillYs Fotowerkstatt · CC BY-SA 4.0Swiss Federal Railways
Swiss ConfederationThe Swiss have a reputation for precision and reliability, and their national railway is no exception. The trains are always on time, and the system is well-maintained.Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is the national railway company of Switzerland. It is known for its exceptional reliability, punctuality, and efficiency in providing high-quality train services.- Established: 1902
- Headquarters: Bern, Switzerland
- Network Length: 3,128 kilometers
- Daily Passengers: 1.25 million
- Top Speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)
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326votesThe Intercity-Express is Germany's high-speed train, which travels at up to 300 km/h. It is known for its comfortable seats, modern amenities, and reliability.The German ICE (InterCity Express) is a high-speed train known for its reliability, comfort, and advanced technology. It is one of the most renowned and efficient trains in the world.
- Top Speed: 320 km/h (199 mph)
- Power Source: 25 kV AC overhead lines
- Train Length: 200 m to 375 m (656 ft to 1,230 ft)
- Maximum Capacity: 400 to 900 passengers (depending on configuration)
- Operating Voltage: 15 kV AC / 16.7 Hz
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416votes
S23725 · CC BY-SA 4.0The Train à Grande Vitesse is France's high-speed train system, which travels at up to 320 km/h. It is known for its speed, punctuality, and frequent service. -
524votes
South Korean KTX
KorailThe Korea Train Express is South Korea's high-speed train system, which travels at up to 305 km/h. It is known for its speed, reliability, and cleanliness.The South Korean KTX, also known as Korea Train eXpress, is a high-speed train system in South Korea that has gained a reputation as one of the most reliable trains in the world. It is operated by the Korail, the national railway operator of South Korea. The KTX uses advanced technology and design features to provide a smooth and efficient journey for passengers.- Maximum Speed: 305 km/h (190 mph)
- Operating Speed: 260 km/h (162 mph)
- Trainsets: KTX-I, KTX-II, KTX-Sancheon
- Seating Capacity: KTX-I: 935 seats, KTX-II: 363 seats, KTX-Sancheon: 363 seats
- Overall Length: KTX-I: 201.8 m (661 ft), KTX-II: 201.8 m (661 ft), KTX-Sancheon: 201.8 m (661 ft)
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63votes
火车仔 · CC BY-SA 3.0Chinese CRH
China Railway CorporationThe China Railway High-speed is China's high-speed train system, which travels at up to 350 km/h. It is known for its modern amenities, punctuality, and efficiency.The Chinese CRH (China Railway High-speed) is a high-speed train system in China known for its reliability and advanced technology. It is considered one of the most reliable train systems in the world.- Maximum Speed: 350 km/h (217 mph)
- Trainsets: 21 variants
- Operational Range: Nationwide
- Power System: Electricity
- Gauge: Standard Gauge
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711votes
Namor88 · CC BY 3.0The Alta Velocidad Española is Spain's high-speed train system, which travels at up to 310 km/h. It is known for its comfort, reliability, and frequency of service.The Spanish AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is a high-speed train that operates in Spain. It was introduced in 1992 and has become one of the most reliable trains in the world. The AVE system connects major cities in Spain, offering a safe and efficient mode of transportation for both domestic and international travelers.- Maximum Speed: 310 km/h (193 mph)
- Passenger Capacity: between 275 and 404 passengers, depending on the train model
- Operating Voltage: 25 kV AC
- Train Control System: ETCS (European Train Control System)
- Power System: Electric
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89votes
Italian Frecciarossa
Bombardier TransportationThe Frecciarossa is Italy's high-speed train system, which travels at up to 300 km/h. It is known for its comfort, reliability, and frequent service.The Italian Frecciarossa is a high-speed train that connects major cities in Italy, known for its reliability, efficiency, and modern design.- Maximum speed: 300 km/h
- Train length: 200 meters
- Seating capacity: 457 passengers
- Power supply: 25 kV AC electrification
- Safety systems: ETCS Level 2
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94votesThe Swedish national railway system is known for its punctuality, comfort, and reliability. The trains are always on time, and the system is well-maintained.The Swedish SJ, also known as Statens Järnvägar, is a state-owned train operator in Sweden that has built a reputation for being one of the most reliable train systems in the world. The company operates a vast network of trains across the country, offering efficient and comfortable transportation for both domestic and international travelers.
- Punctuality: The SJ trains are known for their exceptional punctuality, with a strong track record of adhering to schedules.
- Comfort: Passenger comfort is a priority, with spacious seating arrangements, ample legroom, and modern amenities on board.
- Safety: The trains are equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems to ensure passenger well-being throughout the journey.
- Sustainable Technology: SJ actively invests in environmentally friendly technologies and has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint.
- High-Speed Services: SJ offers high-speed services on certain routes, allowing travelers to reach their destinations quickly and efficiently.
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106votes
Øyvind Berg · CC BY-SA 4.0Norwegian NSB
Norwegian governmentThe Norwegian State Railways is known for its punctuality, comfort, and reliability. The trains are always on time, and the system is well-maintained.Norwegian NSB (Norges Statsbaner) is the national railway company of Norway, known for its reliable and efficient train services.- Train type: Electric multiple unit trains (EMUs) and diesel multiple unit trains (DMUs)
- Top speed: 210 km/h (130 mph)
- Average train speed: 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph)
- Number of trains: Approximately 290
- Total network length: 4,087 kilometers (2,540 miles)
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Ranking factors for reliable train
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Punctualitytrains that consistently arrive at their destinations on time are typically considered more reliable than those that do not.
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Safety recordtrains with a good safety record are more likely to be considered reliable.
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Maintenancetrains that are well-maintained and regularly serviced are less likely to experience breakdowns or delays.
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Comforttrains that provide a comfortable travel experience, including quality seating, climate control, and amenities on-board, are often perceived as more reliable.
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Frequencytrains that run frequently and adhere to a consistent schedule are often more reliable than those with irregular or infrequent service.
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Technologytrains that incorporate advanced technology, such as predictive maintenance systems and real-time tracking, may be able to detect and address potential problems before they occur, making them more reliable.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable train in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or train is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2221 views
- 166 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each train once every 24 hours. The rank of each train is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most reliable train in the world
Trains have been a mode of transportation for over two centuries and are still one of the most popular ways to travel. While there are many different types of trains, it's important to know which ones are the most reliable. A reliable train is one that is on time, has minimal delays, and is safe for passengers. With so many trains operating around the world, it can be difficult to determine which ones are the most dependable. In this article, we will explore the most reliable trains in the world and what makes them stand out from the rest.
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