The train is nicknamed Pato, Spanish for duck, due to the aerodynamic design of the power cars resembling a beak.

Experts ascribe this reduction compared to original plans to budgetary reasons, which derive from the strongly increased power requirements at even higher speeds.

[4] In trials with the prototype unit (later used by track authority ADIF as test train Class 330), on 11 October 2002, 362 km/h (225 mph) was achieved.

[7] Initially, maximum service speed was restricted to 200 km/h (120 mph), due to problems with the train control and signalling system on the line.

[8] Talgo 350 trains based on the Class 102 design are being used on the Haramain high-speed railway line in Saudi Arabia under a contract announced in October 2011.