TGV 001

It was part of a vast research program on high rail speeds which covered all technical aspects, principally traction, the behaviour of the vehicles, braking, aerodynamics and signalling.

This turbotrain was built in a radically different fashion than its predecessors (the ETG and the RTG); it was composed of two power cars and three carriages, all with driving axles.

This setup ensured greater stability and permitted the suspension to be placed near the centre of gravity of each carriage, thus reducing rolling in curves.

Despite setting the speed record for a gas turbine-powered locomotive at 318 kilometres per hour (198 mph), this train never saw commercial use.

TGV 001 still holds the world speed record for a gas turbine-electric locomotive, having travelled at 318 kilometres per hour (198 mph) on 8 December 1972.

TGV 001 at Bordeaux-Saint-Jean station
T 001 seen from the A4 motorway in Bischheim .