Metra has awarded Wabtec Corporation an order to help improve the passenger experience, reliability and safety for the Chicago-area commuter rail system.
The contract includes the latest brakes, passenger access doors, HVAC and event recorder solutions for 200 new rail cars.
“We are thrilled to begin work on this large-scale contract supplying the most advanced technology for doors, brakes and HVAC to one of the world’s busiest commuter rail systems,” said Lilian Leroux, Wabtec Transit president. “This new contract builds upon our position as a leading equipment manufacturer on both sides of the Atlantic and across the world, and will ensure safe, reliable and timely passenger service to millions of riders over 1,200 miles of track and across more than 240 stations throughout the greater Chicago land area.”
Wabtec will provide 800 double doorways and 400 single doorways, which include the new DLC Next door control unit, one of the most modern door control systems in the world. This solution includes touchless buttons to protect passenger’s health and safety. It also enables acoustic sealing of cabin end-doors and allows for 80 percent commonality between all types of doors, making maintenance easier.
The HVAC system will also provide another level of passenger comfort and safety. Wabtec will install 400 passenger HVAC systems, with an efficient energy management system.
In addition, Wabtec will supply its FastBrake microprocessor controlled braking system along with the latest generation wheel slide protection to provide optimum stopping distances in adverse conditions. This system will allow interoperability with existing fleet cars.
