This Earth Month, make plans to explore Southern California on the Pacific Surfliner. We’ve pulled together some stats to show how our riders are helping to keep California healthy and beautiful with each trip.
Reducing Emissions with Each Passenger Mile
There were 147 million passenger miles traveled on the Pacific Surfliner in 2023, resulting in a reduction of more than 53,000 tons* of greenhouse gases. The C02 emissions saved is the equivalent of:
- 5 million gallons of gasoline consumed
- 6,300 homes’ energy use for one year
- 3 billion smartphones charged
- 797,000 tree seedlings grown for 10 years
Getting Cars Off the Road
There are 487 seats on each Pacific Surfliner train. According to the National Household Travel Survey, there are an average of 1.6 people in every vehicle. Based on this data, each train replaces up to 304 cars!
Also, according to the 2021 U.S. Department of Energy Data Book, the train is 46% more energy efficient than traveling by car!
Charger Locomotives
In 2018, new American-made Siemens Charger locomotives were brought into service on the Pacific Surfliner. These locomotives are 16% more fuel efficient and generate 90% fewer emissions compared to the previous locomotives. The Charger was the first locomotive to receive Tier 4 emissions certification from EPA, and is among the cleanest locomotives in the nation! Take a look inside these locomotives.
Onboard Offerings
Our Market Café has a growing selection of locally produced food and drink options, and we’re working to expand the number of plant-based and organic items. Excess food is donated to local missions to reduce waste and support hunger relief programs. Recycling bins are available throughout the train for cans, plastic, and paper products.
Car-Free Destinations
Many Pacific Surfliner trains are conveniently located near popular attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it easy to explore without a car. If you need to travel a little further, many local bus and shuttles offer free connections with a valid Amtrak ticket. Prefer to pedal? Bring your bike along for the ride – each Pacific Surfliner train has space for seven bicycles, and bike reservations can be made for free when booking a trip. You won’t miss your car!
Leave a Light Footprint
In visiting communities across Southern California, you can aid in the recovery of local economies by shopping and dining at local businesses. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and local wines and beers, explore hiking trails, rent a paddleboard or kayak, and more.
Travel Car-Free and Save
Save when you take the train to Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo. Car-free programs provide a 20% savings on train travel plus other special offers at hotels and attractions.
*Calculation source: epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator
**Average Vehicle Occupancy stats: energy.gov