Standing seats for high-capacity trains

Abstract

This paper details the design and potential implementation of standing seats in a commuter rail vehicle for the purposes of maximising capacity and revenue. The vehicle interior design is suited to the “Commuter Class” – a subset of travellers who travel primarily within the commuter belt and frequently utilise rail networks on a daily basis but require little additional space for luggage or peripherals. The concept delivers capacity increases in excess of 50% whilst still offering passengers a greater degree of personal space when compared with standing in aisles or gangways. The impact on vehicle stability and supporting intelligent systems are also discussed, delivering a unique design tailored specifically to meet the needs of the commuter class passenger.

Keywords

• transport capacity
• seating
• standing seats
• commuter
• train interior
• train design