How will the noise level of high-speed passenger trains compare to other trains?
High Speed Rail (HSR) trains generate noise attributable to locomotive engines, wheels on rail and horn use, and are measured in units of decibels (dB). Like all train noise events, HSR generated noise occurs in short duration and is typically infrequent. Pass-by noise of HSR trains operating between 80-110 mph, measured 100 feet away, is approximately 76-80 dB. This is less than both current conventional Amtrak trains and current freight equipment due to the advanced new train set technology, more modern and quieter locomotives, and the increased passing speed of the HSR trains. Some HSR train manufacturers have indicated that new HSR equipment will have even lower noise levels.
