The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has ordered 60 single-level rail coach cars from Alstom.
This order, valued at approximately 285 million EUR (315 million USD), is part of CTDOT’s coach renewal programme. It also includes options for Alstom to build an additional 313 cars in the future.
Delivery of the first coach cars is scheduled to begin in 2026.
These units will be fully customised commuter rail cars specifically designed for North America. They will operate at speeds of up to 125 mph and will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and American Public Transportation Association (APTA) requirements.
Michael Keroullé, President, Alstom Americas said:We are proud to be a part of this exciting new chapter for CTDOT and the people of Connecticut. We look forward to further building upon our relationship with CTDOT by providing extensive expertise ranging from passenger ergonomics, experience, and comfort to operational considerations and optimised maintenance practices for years to come.
The new vehicles will have a two-by-two seating configuration with foldable tables, easy access for wheelchair passengers, bicycle storage areas and convenient overhead luggage racks.
They will also be equipped with Wi-Fi, real-time information displays, power and USB sockets, and current cybersecurity safety features.
Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said:The CTDOT Office of Rail is working hard to upgrade the trip for rail customers across Connecticut. We know they want more comfortable seats, Wi-Fi access, bike storage, and ADA accessibility, and we’re taking action on those needs with steps like this. We’re pleased to partner with Alstom on the order of this next generation of rail cars. This order is part of our ongoing capital program to purchase new rail cars and improve the customer experience.
