The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has approved Keolis’s plan to operate battery-electric trains on the Fairmount Commuter Rail Line.
This 54 million USD agreement will advance the acquisition of battery-electric trains to offer more frequent services and lower emissions.
The plan was submitted by Keolis Commuter Services, the operating partner for the MBTA Commuter Rail, in December 2023.
“This plan is a major win for Fairmount Line riders and our entire state. By electrifying the Fairmount Line, we'll deliver more frequent, reliable service while also moving Massachusetts forward on our climate goals. I'm grateful to Secretary Tibbits-Nutt, General Manager Eng and Keolis for their visionary, innovative work to finalise this plan that will have long-term benefits on our transportation system, environment, economy and overall quality of life.”
Thanks to this approval, MBTA and Keolis can now finalise contract details, including a timeline for service to begin.
Subject to the procurement process, the first train is expected to enter service on the Fairmount Line in early 2028.
“There have been discussions about electrifying our rail network for many years. This agreement is a gamechanger that will benefit generations of passengers, beginning first on the Fairmount Line. By embracing new technologies, we will be able to electrify the Fairmount Line sooner within our existing available funding. Understanding the billions of dollars needed to fully electrify our entire system, this is the first step that I believe will pave the way to a profound transformation that can bring the future of our rail network that much closer. I thank Keolis, the MBTA’s Rail Modernization and Railroad Operations team, and all of our support groups as we focus on delivering improved service that is environmentally friendly for future generations to come.”
The battery electric multiple unit trains (BEMUs) will use hybrid power with an onboard battery that can recharge when overhead catenary wires are available, such as at South Station.
As well as emitting less air pollution and reducing energy consumption, these vehicles will provide passengers with a smoother and quieter ride, more space, and a modernised commuting experience.
“We’re thrilled that our proposal has been approved and that we are able to partner with the MBTA to introduce decarbonised service to the Fairmount line community. Battery-electric trains will transform the Fairmount Line, allowing for more frequent trips, more reliable service, and reduced carbon emissions.”
The Fairmount Commuter Rail Line is MBTA’s shortest of the Commuter Rail Lines with nine stations. It carries approximately 3,200 passengers per day.
Switching to a battery-electric service on this line would save 1.6 million gallons of fuel and mitigate 17,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.
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