Wattman USA General Information – FAQ

The Wattman USA general information FAQ answers common questions about our trains, company history, and US operations.

What is a trackless train, and how does it work?

A trackless train is a fully electric vehicle designed to carry passengers on roads, pavements, or pedestrian areas without the need for rails. Wattman trains are modular, consisting of a locomotive and multiple passenger wagons, connected by steering and safety systems. They are used in entertainment venues, shopping centers, public spaces, and events.

Who typically uses Wattman trains?

Wattman trains are used by:

  • Shopping malls and retail destinations
  • Amusement and theme parks
  • Municipalities and public transit operators
  • Zoos, resorts, and tourist areas
  • Event rental companies
  • Brands and agencies for promotional campaigns

Many operators use our trains to sell tickets directly or rent them out for corporate events, generating consistent annual revenue.

How many passengers can a Wattman train carry?

Passenger capacity depends on the train model and wagon configuration:

Mini Express

  • 3 wagons: up to ~20 small children or ~14 adults and children combined (max load 1,350 lb)

  • 4 wagons: up to ~24 small children or ~18 adults and children combined (max load 1,800 lb)

Maxi Express

  • 3 wagons: up to ~24 small children or ~18 adults and children combined (max load 2,550 lb)

  • 4 wagons: up to ~32 small children or ~24 adults and children combined (max load 3,400 lb)

This flexibility makes Wattman trains ideal for both small venues and large-scale operations, ensuring efficient guest flow and strong revenue potential.

What surfaces can a Wattman train operate on?

Our trains are designed for hard, flat surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, pavers, and indoor flooring. They are not suitable for rough terrain or steep slopes. This versatility allows seamless operation in malls, parks, zoos, and more.

Can a Wattman train operate on slopes or uneven terrain?

Wattman trains are primarily designed for flat surfaces. However, they can safely handle inclines of up to 7% (≈ 4 degrees) when fully loaded. For steeper or uneven terrain, we recommend a site assessment to ensure safe and reliable operation.

What makes Wattman trains different from other options?

Wattman is the only manufacturer with a purpose-built drivetrain and chassis explicitly designed for attraction train use – not adapted from industrial stockchasers.

Our trains are:

  • Built with North American-grade components (80% sourced from U.S. Tier-1 suppliers)
  • Certified to ASTM standards by TÜV
  • Designed for a 10–15 year lifespan, with many trains operating 20+ years
  • Supported by a dedicated service and parts team in the U.S.

In contrast, many alternatives use generic warehouse platforms (Stockchasers) or lower-cost components not intended for public transport applications.

How long has Wattman been manufacturing trains?

Wattman has been designing and manufacturing premium trackless trains since 1994. Our trains are in use in over 50 countries and are trusted by operators across the U.S. for their quality and reliability.

Why are trains from other suppliers so similar to Wattman trains?

Wattman set the design benchmark for trackless trains globally. While some manufacturers attempt to copy our look, they often lack the engineering quality, certifications, and lifecycle durability that define the Wattman standard.

We welcome side-by-side comparisons — especially in real-world performance, lifespan, and support.

Why is a Wattman train considered the best on the market?

Because we focus on long-term value, not short-term cost. Wattman trains offer:

  • Proven revenue generation ($125k–$200k/year via ticketing, $60k–$100k/year via rentals)
  • Unmatched lifespan (10–15 years, 20+ with maintenance)
  • Brand-enhancing design that boosts customer experience
  • Reliable U.S.-based service and replacement parts
  • Industry-leading resale value (up to 50% after 5 years)

In short: Wattman trains pay for themselves — and then keep generating value.

Why are Wattman trains often more expensive than others?

Because cheaper trains are built to be replaced, Wattman trains are built to last.

While alternatives may cost less upfront, they typically require replacement after 2–5 years, lack certification, and have limited support.

In contrast, Wattman trains are:

  • Certified, serviceable, and built for revenue
  • Used by operators who think in ROI, not just purchase price
  • Often recovered in just 6–18 months through rentals or ticket sales

You’re not buying a toy — you’re investing in a revenue platform that strengthens your brand.

Do you sell larger Tourist or Road trains?

Yes, we do. While Wattman USA focuses on electric Mini Express and Maxi Express trains for malls, zoos, resorts, and tourist destinations, our sister company – The Train Company USA Inc. – specializes in larger Tourist and Road trains. This means you can rely on the same trusted expertise and US compliance standards when choosing bigger road-going trains for your venue. Contact our team, and we’ll connect you directly with The Train Company USA for more details.