Loading gauge
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A loading gauge is a diagram or physical structure that defines the maximum height and width dimensions in railway vehicles and their loads. Their purpose is to ensure that rail vehicles can pass safely through tunnels and under bridges, and keep clear of platforms, trackside buildings and structures. Classification systems vary between different countries, and gauges may vary across a network, even if the track gauge is uniform.
The clearance space between a train and the tunnel is often small. Pictured is a London Underground Northern line 1995 Stock train emerging from the tunnel north of Hendon Central station.
The London Underground utilises differing loading gauges: a Metropolitan line A Stock sub-surface train (left) passes a Piccadilly line 1973 Stock tube train (right).
Zürich – Lucerne IC 2000 double-decker Intercity train
Double-decker carriage as used on French TGV railways
TGV Duplex
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The TGV Duplex is a French high-speed train of the TGV family, manufactured by Alstom, and operated by the French national railway company SNCF. They were the first TGV trainsets to use bi-level passenger carriages with a seating capacity of 508 passengers, increasing capacity on busy high-speed lines. While the TGV Duplex started as a small component of the TGV fleet, it has become one of the system's workhorses.
TGV Duplex traveling to Paris from Modane and passing in Saint-Jean-de-la-Porte, Savoie, France
First class on a TGV Duplex
Réseau Duplex on the LGV Méditerranée