gregorygrice

Does each and every set go through months of testing, or just the very first one?

Yes I believe so. Because they are carrying people, the MNRR must make sure everything works on the train. It's the same thing with the subway cars. Alstom(which produces the R160s) has their own testing facility somewhere in upstate NY where testing is done on every car that comes out of the factory. So the NYCTAs job is done for them already.

Did they begin service as of right now?

(N)ot yet buddy. They go through months of testing just like the first pair that arrived on Christmas eve.

Eh, I suppose. I like 3rd rail system much better, though.

Both ways are cool. But catenary lines allow trains to run at faster speeds than third rail. Thats why all highspeed trains (that are electric) run on catenary wires.

So basically they are modern version of M2? Whats wrong with 3rd rail? Why cant they use it in CT? Seems like a most convenient way for electric trains to operate.

Well why pay billions to add third rails when you already have the catenaries to use? The NEC is all catenary.

Im so hyped about the M8s:)

The first pair of M8's will be in New Haven on Monday.

OMG!! Cant wait to see them:)