Quote:
Originally Posted by Nexis4Jersey
The whole NJT system was originally supposed to be Electrified , but that was canceled due to costs. However they are ordering DMU's to replace the push-pulls. What would electrification really do for the line , shave off 10 mins? Its a very curvy line unlike the Main line or even Bergen County line....and you have to merge a few times very slowly.
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Electrification would eliminate the diesel locomotives. That would cut fuel costs entirely (and be better for the environment), greatly reduce maintenance costs (multiple-unit electromotive cars rarely breakdown and have far less serviceable parts), and allow for longer trains with more passenger space (by replacing the locomotive with a passenger cab car).
Long term, electrification brings more reliable service at a lower operating cost (better efficiency overall) but of course requires a substantial initial capital investment. Budget strapped agencies looking to cut their immediate bottom line often fail to realize long term gains and often opt for short term cost reduction (investing in more dual-mode locomotives instead, which are notorious for requiring more frequent service).