The Mayan Train project is considered one of the most important infrastructure works in the history of Mexico’s rail Network. Tren Maya, operated by Alstom will connect the Yucatán Peninsula, by linking famous Mayan sites with beachside resorts.
The aim of the project is to boost economic growth in Mexico’s southeast region by creating jobs and support for local manufacturing, while preserving natural areas, ecosystems and the environment, promoting tourism and safeguarding local indigenous cultures.
[the project] will connect the Mayan world in five states of the Mexican southeast. It will facilitate connectivity between communities, improve the quality of life of the inhabitants and boost the regional economy.
Government of Mexico
For the project, 42 X’trapolis trains will be designed and built locally, at the Ciudad Sahagún plant, in Hidalgo, which gave Tren Maya the appellative of a “train for Mexico, built in Mexico”. X’trapolis is Alstom’s electric train that will have a unique and exclusive design for this project. Its exterior design is inspired by the Mayan culture, “in the majesty of the jaguar, as an endemic element of the region”, Alstom revealed. The 42 trains will also display varied colours and textures of regional art.
The interior design is inspired by a range of shades of blue, characteristic of the sea that surrounds the region, and different organic forms. This concept combines a range of varied colours that pay tribute to modernity and tradition, as well as the beautiful landscape of the Mexican southeast.
When entering the common areas, such as lobbies and cafeteria, a mix of hues is used to give a feeling of welcome and warmth. The result of all these combinations is a contemporary train with a strong identity.
Alstom
Tren Maya will have thee types of carriages: Xiinbal (walking) – standard regular service car that will allow passengers to enjoy a journey with large panoramic windows; Janal (eating) – a restaurant wagon; and P’atal (staying) – with compartments for long distances having more comfortable cabins.
The first section of the Mayan Train, which will reach speeds of up to176 km/h, will start operating in December 2023, transporting both local residents and tourists. The route will be 1,545 kilometres long, connecting the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo.
