Siemens Transportation has unveiled its first diesel multiple unit (DMU) in the US with their North County Transit District customer. The 'Sprinter' regional transportation project provides 22 miles of rail service on an existing freight line that runs parallel with Highway 78, connecting Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos and Escondido.

On 29 August 2006 Californians experienced their first look at a uniquely different and flexible solution for mass transit service providers the first Siemens diesel multiple unit (DMU)."It's German engineered, economical, environmentally friendly, sleek and reliable," said Lori Hess, Siemens Transportation vice president of business development. The Sprinter, traveling ata top operating speed of 55 mph, will make triple the number of stops in less time than the existing express bus connection and can still save riders 16 minutes making the trip between Oceanside and Escondido in just under an hour.

Manufactured in Germany at Siemens' Krefeld-Uerdingen plant, the Desiro family of trains provides flexibility for use by transit authorities operating regional rail as well as mass transit service. "Widely used in Europe, the Desiro offers NCTD the answer for a light rail car that's easy to maintain and is cost efficient," proudly stated Karen King, NCTD executive director.