Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announce a set of uniform criteria for the design of double-decker train cars, which will help to scale the production of train manufacture to systems across the U.S.

“As part of the Obama Administration’s focus on maximizing manufacturing opportunities, these first-ever uniform standards will provide an unprecedented opportunity for manufacturers in the U.S. – from rails to wheel bearings, to final assembly – to build a strong, stable manufacturing base,” said Secretary LaHood, in a release.

America has one existing high speed rail line, the Acela, which operates between Washington D.C. and Boston. As our system of interstate high speed passenger rail grows, it is important that trains can cross from one state to another without negatively impacting rider safety.

“This is a milestone in the history of rail transportation,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “These standardized bi-level passenger rail cars will be able to operate nationwide and are compatible with existing equipment. A common design also makes it easier to train maintenance personnel, stock parts and perform repairs, which reduces costs.”

Few passenger train systems currently operate in the U.S., and those that do mostly carry commuters within metropolitan regions. Interoperability has been of very minor concern as there is currently very little need for trains to travel outside their home areas either on revenue routes, or for maintenance purposes. Building trains according to a federally mandated standard will ensure that the best designs can be used anywhere in the country and will have the largest possible audience.