Following successful trials in March 1955, the SNCF ordered 92 units of the BB 9200. These locomotives could haul a train of 1000 tonnes at a maximum speed of 160 kph (99 mph). These engines were nicknamed BB Jacquemins, after the designer of their mechanical parts. They were put into service on the Southeast and Southwest networks, hauling passenger trains. They hauled not only the prestigious Mistral train between Paris and Marseille, but also pulled goods trains up to 1800 tonnes. The SNCF asked the BB 9200 manufacturers to adapt the last two locomotives of the series to reach 250 kph (155 mph). These rolled out of the Ateliers du Creusot facility in 1964, equipped with more powerful engines than the others. In 1967, the SNCF publicised 200 kph (124 mph) speeds for the Paris-Toulouse line. On 28 May, the inaugural journey of the Capitole was quite an event. Not only did its speed make it the fastest train in France, but its red livery with a white band also got people’s attention. The name “Capitole” was marked in polished brass lettering on a band half way down the carriages. The trains were generally made up of six first class carriages, one dining car and a first class carriage also used for luggage, giving a load of 370 tonnes for a maximum capacity of 366 passengers. This business service ran in the evenings and covered the 712 km (442 miles) between Paris and Toulouse in 6 hours. Its commercial success was immediate. Demand was so high that in September 1968 the SNCF decided to put a second Capitole into service in the mornings. The year of 1967, however, is a date that will forever mark high-speed rail history. Nearly 50 years later, the red Capitole is still remembered as the fastest SNCF train, and one that initiated railway modernisation. The train had started to become, in the eyes of some, an outdated mode of transport. But from this time on, it would regain the respect of the public. In 2007, the SNCF decided to keep the BB 9291 and restore it to its original state with its red Capitole livery. The BB 9291 has been built by CEM – MTE Schneider Jeumont in 1964 (Source Cité du Train)
Pictures of French high speed conquest... With all kind of locomotives, trains and infrastructures that participated to improve rail speed and makes the best world records.
