Amtrak awarded Siemens Mobility a USD 3.4 billion contract to design, manufacture and technically support 73 multi-powered trains which will operate primarily on the Northeast Corridor (NEC). The contract includes an option for up to 140 additional trains and further maintenance agreements. The order is the company’s latest endeavor to acquire the most sustainable and efficient trains on the market, which include dual powered and hybrid battery vehicles.
According to Amtrak, the manufacturer will supply 83 multi-powered modern trains for the northeast services while 130 additional trains will support operator’s expansion strategy to connect up to 160 communities throughout the United States by building new or improved rail corridors in over 25 states.
The order includes dual power and hybrid battery trains. The first will be delivered in 2024, while the first of its kind Venture Hybrid battery train will begin testing in 2025. The trains for the Northeast Corridor and State Supported routes will be delivered from 2024 through 2030. Through the use of multi-power systems, including hybrid battery operation, they will also provide a substantial environmental benefit through reduced emissions compared to the existing fleet.
“Amtrak’s procurement of new rolling stock is historic. These state-of-the-art trainsets will allow Amtrak to operate and provide services more safely, efficiently, and reliably. More importantly, doing so will give riders the modern passenger rail accommodations, amenities and comforts they want and deserve,” FRA Deputy Administrator Amit Bose said.
Amtrak intends to invest USD 7.3 billion which includes the purchase of equipment and a long-term parts supply and service agreement, facility modifications and upgrades, and other programme expenses. A long-term service agreement for technical support, spare parts and material supply will accompany the contract to manufacture the trains.
The trains include wireless communications, remote monitoring and fully integrated digital diagnostics for increased reliability. These advanced features will enable Amtrak to test and develop new technology and introduce new maintenance approaches to drive efficiency, increase availability and reduce long term costs.
The trains will feature more comfortable seating, individual power outlets and USB ports, onboard Wi-Fi, enhanced lighting and panoramic windows, a more contemporary food service experience, including self-service options, as well as state-of-the-art customer trip information, digital seat reservation system and navigation display systems.
The trains were designed with the latest health and safety standards, including enhanced HVAC, touchless restroom controls, and automated steps. In addition, they will be designed with Amtrak’s new standard of enhanced accessible features, including inductive hearing loops, accessible restrooms and vestibules, accessible Food Service car, and lifts for customers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users. The trains meet all the latest safety regulations and standards, providing improved structural safety.
The new trains will be manufactured at Siemens Mobility’s North American rail manufacturing facility in Sacramento, California and will comply with the Federal Railroad Administration Buy America Standards.
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