Stadler US Inc. (Stadler), in conjunction with Metra, will be presenting its battery-electric Fast Light Innovative Regional Train (FLIRT) developed for the U.S. market at the American Public Transportation Association EXPO and TRANSform conference. Built for Metra, Chicago's commuter rail operator, Stadler says the battery-electric FLIRT train represents a new generation of zero-emission rail technology.

Designed to help transit agencies modernize service, the trains can be added to a fleet without the need for full corridor electrification. Metra ordered eight battery-electric trainsets. The new battery train is expected to enter passenger service by 2028. 

"As transit agencies across North America explore practical pathways toward reducing emissions, battery-electric rail technology is becoming an increasingly attractive solution," said Stadler North America CEO Martin Ritter. "We are proud to present the first U.S. battery FLIRT and demonstrate how innovative vehicle technology can help agencies achieve their sustainability, service, and operational goals."

The battery FLIRT is based on Stadler's existing FLIRT platform and utilizes onboard lithium-ion batteries to allow operation on non-electrified rail corridors while producing zero local emissions. The company says the train can recharge using existing 480V cabling in yards and terminals, through dedicated charging infrastructure and by recovering energy through regenerative braking. Stadler says this flexibility enables rail operators to deploy electric service on routes where traditional electrification may not be economically feasible.

“This purchase demonstrates Metra’s commitment to cleaner power, to quieter trains and to thinking outside the box as we plan for our future,” said Metra Executive Director and CEO Jim Derwinski. “We are excited to bring this technology, and its efficiency, flexibility and reliability to Chicago and to our riders.”

Stadler notes that battery-electric rail technology is already delivering results in Europe. Its FLIRT Akku trains entered passenger service in Germany in 2023, where they operate on partially electrified regional networks and replace diesel-powered services.

For U.S. transit agencies, Stadler says that battery trains offer a compelling option to reduce emissions, lower noise levels and improve service flexibility without requiring extensive infrastructure investments. It also says that modern multiple-unit trainsets also provide operational benefits such as faster acceleration, improved energy efficiency and an enhanced passenger experience.

“These new trainsets are coming at a perfect time,” said Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Chairman Tom Kotarac. “As NITA begins its work to create a more cohesive and useful public transportation system in northeast Illinois, we are excited about the potential for these new trainsets to help increase service and improve regional connectivity while at the same time reducing regional pollution and noise.”