CSR! Autorail DMU 854-855 Train №14 line TA Coming from Ghardimaou and heading towards Tunis.

Описание: The CSR DMU is a set of diesel multiple units (DMU) delivered from China
(CSR Nanjing / CSR Puzhen) to the Tunisian National Railways (SNCFT)
They come in two configurations to run on both standard gauge (1,435 mm) and metre gauge (1,000 mm) tracks, because Tunisia’s network uses both kinds
Order Delivery & Service Entry:
The contract for CSR to supply these DMUs was won in 2009.
The delivery schedule was to complete by 2011–2012.
The first unit was shipped / delivered around early 2012.
After delivery, the units entered service on routes in and around Tunis, on both standard-gauge and metre-gauge lines
Technical Specifications:
Feature Detail
Gauge versions Two types: standard gauge (1,435 mm) and metre gauge (1,000 mm)
Number of units ordered 40 DMU cars in total: 12 standard-gauge units + 8 metre-gauge units
(so 20 DMUs if each unit is two cars?)
Maximum speed Standard gauge units: 160 km/h; Metre-gauge units: 130 km/h
Power / Engine Each standard-gauge DMU has about 588 kW diesel engines. There are two main power-packs (Voith‑Powerpacks) in each unit.
Noise level The engine noise is optimized: inside the DMU it is under 68 dB(A).
Temperature tolerance Designed for ambient external temperatures up to 50°C, with cooling & roof-mounted cooling systems adapted accordingly.
Capacity About 117 passengers per two-car train in some sources.
Dimensions / Mass One source lists the car length about 22,915 mm and weight approx 55 tons (for a car) in some spec sheets.
Performance features Digital traction control; transmission braking; lightweight materials; adaptation of bogies for different gauges; multiple-unit capability
(multiple units can work together)
Operational Details & Usage:
These DMUs are used for regional and inter‑city passenger services, especially on routes where electrification is not available or practical.
Because Tunisia has both metre‑gauge and standard‑gauge lines, these vehicles allow SNCFT some flexibility.
They are considered a modernization for the SNCFT: more comfortable, quieter, faster, better adapted to climate conditions.
Strengths & Limitations:
Strengths:
Improved speed (especially standard gauge 160 km/h) compared to many older rolling stock.
Improved passenger comfort (lower noise, better interiors)
Adapted for hot climates (cooling, tolerating high ambient temperature)
Dual gauge strategy helps maximize utility in Tunisia’s mixed‐gauge network
Limitations / Challenges:
Diesel units, so emissions and fuel use are considerations.
Maintenance needs of diesel power packs in hot and possibly dusty conditions.
Infrastructure (track quality, signalling, etc.) must support higher speeds for full performance.
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