Direct LA-SF train

[jis]

The standard coupler on TGVs is a variety of Scharfenberg coupler intended for hooking two TGVs together for commercial operation at full speed. It carries control and communication connectors and brake lines. It does not carry HEP, since HEP in each TGV set operates independently.

For the diesel operation they had to use modifications to provide a HEP connector that could be hidden under the shroud. The HEP connection was done manually separate from the Scharfenberg coupler.

 

[chakk]

I am not aware of any diesel-electric locomotives in America certified to travel at 220 mph, engaged or not.

Most likely, Diesels would be removed at each starting location for the electric portion of California's HSR route. And new Diesels would be added at the end of the HSR route to pull the train over non-electrified sections.