TGV 001, Gas turbine prototype trainset in Bischheim, France
The TGV 001 was an experimental high-speed train powered by two Turbomeca Turmo gas turbine engines originally designed for helicopters, featuring two power cars and three articulated passenger carriages.
The TGV 001 was unveiled to the public on April 4, 1972, and achieved a world record speed of 318 km/h (197 mph) on December 8, 1972, during extensive testing that covered approximately 310,000 miles (499,000 kilometers).
Designed by Jacques Cooper, the TGV 001 featured a sleek nose resembling a sports car and an orange livery symbolizing speed, with an interior modeled after airplane cabins to enhance passenger comfort.
The TGV 001 is preserved as a historical monument near the A4 highway at exit 50 in Bischheim, and another unit is displayed at the Cité du Train museum, showcasing France's early high-speed rail innovations.
Despite achieving record speeds with gas turbine propulsion, the TGV 001 was never intended for commercial service and testing concluded in 1978 after the 1973 oil crisis prompted a shift to electric traction systems.
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