Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) exercised its option and ordered from Hyundai Rotem 41 additional bi-level commuter railcars to operate Greater Boston rail system.
The new coaches will be added to the previously agreed-upon 83 railcars that will be equipped with a range of features designed to improve passenger experience such as real- time information systems with automated announcements and message displays, USB ports at passenger tables, as well as Warm-white LED lighting for a more pleasant environment. The new vehicles will deliver designated areas for passengers with disabilities as well as bicycle racks, promoting multimodality. The new carriages will have a capacity for up to 179 seated passengers in each car.
Key safety features for the new commuter railcars include defibrillators (AEDs) on control railcars, emergency intercom units, anti-slip paint in vestibules as well as updated signage, including Braille.
“Hyundai Rotem will actively participate in the future US Rolling Stock Market by utilizing its past performance of cooperating with local transportation authorities,” Hyundai Rotem CEO Yong Bae Lee said.
The MBTA has taken delivery of 76 new bi-level commuter rail coaches with 64 already in passenger service. The remaining coaches are undergoing final testing and are expected to enter service by the end of 2024. To date, we have received 76 out of 83 commuter railcars and 64 coaches are currently in passenger service. The procurement contract with Hyundai Rotem was valued at USD 305 million. Investing in state-of-the-art rolling stock was a much-needed effort underscored by the MBTA’s November 2023 Capital Needs Assessment estimated USD 24.5 billion for needed repairs and replacements across the system. Rolling stock accounted for USD 2.4 billion.
The new coaches will deliver better services for passengers using Greater Boston rail system. “As we continue to see a strong return of our ridership on commuter rail, investing in our rolling stock allows us to not only improve service levels but provides the public with a more comfortable and reliable experience,” MBTA CEO and General Manager Phillip Eng, said.
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