Rolling stock refers to all vehicles that move on a railway, including locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars.
Track Design and Maintenance - The condition and design of the tracks,
including their curvature, grade, and alignment, affect the maximum safe speed.
Train Configuration and Weight - The type of rolling stock (e.g., passenger trains, freight trains) and its weight impact how fast it can travel.
Aerodynamics - The shape and design of the train affect.
Safety Systems - Speed is often regulated by onboard systems and signaling technology to prevent collisions and ensure the train can stop safely within the available distance.
Signaling and Communication - The signaling system in place can dictate the maximum allowable speed based on current conditions and other trains on the network.
Passenger Comfort - For passenger trains, there is a balance between speed and comfort.
Weather Conditions - Adverse weather conditions like rain, snow,
or ice can affect traction and braking performance.
Operational Constraints - Timetabling, station stops, and other operational factors