A new high-end overnight train route between Los Angeles and San Francisco is set to launch in the first half of next year.
The train is being developed by Dreamstar Lines, a California-based company. It will run between Los Angeles’ Union Station and San Francisco’s 4th and King Street Station.
“The Dreamstar concept is designed to provide an alternative to the drawbacks of travel by traditional rail, airlines, automobiles and buses,” according to Dreamstar. “Passengers not only avoid those issues with Dreamstar, but spend less waking time travelling as they will be able to restfully sleep for most of their journey.”
"By launching this service, we are not only offering a luxurious and eco-friendly travel option but also revitalising the rich heritage of overnight rail travel in America,” said Dreamstar CEO Joshua Dominic.
The train will be designed by Designworks, a subsidiary of BMW.
It will feature first class suites with private bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms, as well as standard passenger cars and lounge cars with open seating.
"Our initial concept designs for Dreamstar allowed us to imagine what connectivity between two vibrant cities — Los Angeles and San Francisco — could truly feel like, creating a vision of something far more than just practical, but a delightful experience in its own right,” said Designworks CEO Julia de Bono.
Dreamstar is developing an app for tickets, hospitality, and last mile transport, and is exploring a vehicle transport service for passengers.
The train will run on Union Pacific’s Coast Line railroad line. The company signed a memorandum of understanding with Union Pacific in March.
Dreamstar aims to expand to other American regions, as well as internationally.