Metra is initially ordering eight two-car trainsets, which can later be expanded to three-car or four-car trainsets.
Compliant with the Buy America Act, the vehicles will be built in the United States and are designed to meet all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) standards.
Today's contract award represents a transformative step forward for Chicago's transportation landscape. We're introducing emission-free drive technology for rail transport in the city for the first time and pioneering the sale of modern multiple-unit train technology. This marks a significant shift towards sustainable and efficient urban mobility, shaping the future of transit in our city.
The trains ordered from Metra will be manufactured to be winterised and thus adapted to the severe winter conditions in Chicago. The features include efficient air conditioning technology including underfloor heating in the boarding areas as well as special insulation and well-sealed machine rooms to protect the drive technology.
Martin Ritter, CEO Stadler US, says: “Our BEMU technology helps support transit agencies like Metra in their mission to bring state-of-the art green public transit to the US. We are excited to build these trains for the greater Chicago area and are looking forward to the partnership with Metra."
“We think these trains will be an essential addition to our fleet,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “Beyond the environmental and noise reduction benefits, they could also play a significant role in our vision to provide more frequent all-day service. We are excited to be working with Stadler and taking the lead on this technology.”
Alternative drive solutions for a net-zero rail travel
Stadler’s range of alternative drive solutions enable more environmentally-friendly rail travel even where there was previously no alternative to diesel. Stadler has more than 80 years of experience in the construction of battery-powered rail vehicles. The modern battery-powered vehicles run both with and without overhead lines and recharge while travelling or braking.