[proberts]

Hello,

I’m working on a computer game, and part of it needs to model train timetabling. For simplicity, I’ve decided on having just two types of locomotive: diesel and electric.

The question I’m trying to answer is this: How long does it take for an average [Diesel/Electric] passenger train with C coaches to reach its maximum speed, and how long does it take to reduce its speed down again to 0 for the next station?

Feel free to make whatever assumptions you like.

If anyone could provide me with a formula for the train’s maximum rate of acceleration over time from a standing start (and indeed deceleration from maximum speed), that’d be even better!

Many thanks,
Paul