USA: Kansas City Southern has revised the definitions of two metrics that it uses to measure operating performance.
Operational Cars Online (formerly Cars Online) represents the number of wagons on the KCS network that are not at a customer’s location.
Gross Velocity (formerly Train Speed) measures the average velocity of a train between its origin and destination stations. This is calculated as the sum of the distance travelled divided by the total transit hours broken down by segment across the route. This includes all time spent at intermediate locations, including crew changes, terminal dwell, delays and other incidents.
To assist in comparing new data to historical performance, KCS has provided two years of restated service metrics using the revised definitions.
‘As part of its transition to a precision-scheduled network, KCS is pleased to provide a more complete view of its operational performance to its customers and stakeholders’, said Executive Vice-President, Precision Scheduled Railroading, Sameh Fahmy, on April 29. ‘These revised metrics will give stakeholders a more accurate understanding of KCS’ operational performance as we strive to improve customer service.’
The operator will continue to report train speed, dwell and cars on line to the Surface Transportation Board in the manner the agency requires.
