Bombardier Transportation has signed contracts for 28 BiLevel commuter rail cars with two West Coast transit agencies in a procurement led by Sound Transit.
The total combined value of the contracts is approximately $108 million.
The two contracts represent a combination of eight cab cars and 20 coaches and include options for 33 additional rail cars. The cars will be built at Bombardier’s manufacturing site in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2021.
“We are very happy to serve our valued, long-term commuter rail car customers as they expand and improve their fleets to meet ridership needs and enhance the passenger experience,” said Elliot G. (Lee) Sander, president, America’s Region, Bombardier Transportation. “These new orders are a demonstration of continued confidence in the BiLevel commuter rail car, a service-proven transit solution that delivers unparalleled reliability.”
First introduced in 1978, the BiLevel car is a double-deck commuter rail car and is in operation at 14 transportation authorities across Canada and the United States. The latest steps in the evolution of the rail car include BiLevel cars equipped with a Crash Energy Management system, full width cab, upgrades to door and air conditioning systems and enhancements to passenger amenities. A more aerodynamic cab car and new lighting will reduce fuel consumption and increase energy efficiency. The rail car complies with U.S. Federal Railroad Administration and American Public Transportation Association standards.
