The USA’s Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has awarded Alstom an order for 60 single-level rail cars valued at approximately US$315 million (approximately £246 million) as part of CTDOT’s coach renewal program for its statewide rail system. The contract includes options to build an additional 313 cars.
Delivery is scheduled to begin in 2026. The cars will be prioritized for use on the Hartford Line, as well as the branches of the New Haven Line.
The new vehicles will all be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and American Public Transportation Association (APTA) requirements. The agreement calls for the delivery of fully customised, sustainable, next-generation commuter rail cars specifically designed for North America, providing riders with safe, comfortable, 125mph (200km/h) commuter rail service.
Seating will be in a two-by-two configuration with foldable tables and easy access for wheelchair passengers. The new cars will also be fitted with convenient overhead luggage racks, workstation tables and a bicycle storage area, safe and reliable Wi-Fi access, real time information on upcoming stops, conveniently located power and USB access, and the most current cybersecurity safety features. In addition, passengers will enjoy panoramic balcony-style windows at wheeled mobility spaces, allowing for the flow of natural sunlight through the car’s interior, giving riders great views.
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont said: “Having a modernised transit system with safe, comfortable, and convenient access to work, homes and fun is essential to attracting the kind of businesses and workforce talent we need to grow good-paying jobs and remain economically competitive.
“Connecticut is the home of the busiest commuter rail line in the country. Keeping our rail system updated is essential to attracting the businesses and workforce talent we need to grow good-paying jobs and remain economically competitive.
“I’m excited for their delivery!”
Connecticut Department of Transportation commissioner Garrett Eucalitto added: “The CTDOT Office of Rail is working hard to upgrade the trip for rail customers across Connecticut. We know they want more comfortable seats, Wi-Fi access, bike storage, and ADA accessibility, and we’re taking action on those needs with steps like this.
“We’re pleased to partner with Alstom on the order of the next generation of rail cars. This order is part of our ongoing capital program to purchase new rail cars and improve the customer experience.”
Alstom Americas president Michael Keroullé responded: “We are proud to be a part of this exciting new chapter for CTDOT and the people of Connecticut.
“We look forward to further building upon our relationship with CTDOT by providing extensive expertise ranging from passenger ergonomics, experience, and comfort to operational considerations and optimized maintenance practices for years to come.”
The new cars will offer CTDOT passengers a reliable and fast regional rail option, reducing traffic congestion along the region’s interstates and the state’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to meet its 2030 targets.
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