Siemens Mobility said it has been awarded $3.4 billion of contracts in the United States to design, manufacture and technically support 73 multi-powered trains for Amtrak.
There is also a possibility for up to 140 additional trains and maintenance agreements.
The order is Amtrak’s latest endeavor to acquire the most sustainable and efficient trains on the market, which include dual powered and hybrid battery vehicles.
The trains will operate across the Northeast Corridor of the US and across various state-supported routes, including operations in Maine, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
With expanded capacity and the ability to shorten trip time, Amtrak expects the new trains will add over 1.5 million riders annually.
“These new trains will reshape the future of rail travel by replacing our aging 40-to-50-year old fleet with state-of-the-art, American-made equipment,” said Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn.
“This investment is essential to preserving Northeast Regional and state-supported services for the future and will allow our customers to travel comfortably and safely, while reducing carbon emissions.”
Michael Cahill, president of Siemens Mobility, Rolling Stock, in North America, said: “These new trains, some of which, will be our first hybrid battery operations in the United States, will transform the way Americans travel.
“Offering a more sustainable and comfortable travel experience, they will be built for excellence and built with pride in Sacramento, California.
“Over the past decade, we’ve worked closely with Amtrak and its state partners to develop and deliver trains that meet the needs of America’s travelers, these next generation trainsets build on that experience and offer much more.”
The order includes dual power and hybrid battery trains.
The first will be delivered in 2024, while the first of its kind Venture Hybrid battery train will begin testing in 2025.
The trains for the Northeast Corridor and State Supported routes will be delivered from 2024 through 2030.
Through the use of multi-power systems, including hybrid battery operation, they will also provide a substantial environmental benefit through reduced emissions compared to the existing fleet.
“The latest trains will feature more comfortable seating, individual power outlets and USB ports, onboard Wifi, enhanced lighting and panoramic windows, a more contemporary food service experience, including self-service options, as well as state-of-the-art customer trip information, digital seat reservation system and navigation display systems,” said Siemens Mobility.
“The trains were designed with the latest health and safety standards, including enhanced HVAC, touchless restroom controls, and automated steps.
“In addition, they will be designed with Amtrak’s new standard of enhanced accessible features, including inductive hearing loops, accessible restrooms and vestibules, accessible Food Service car, and lifts for customers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users.
“The trains meet all the latest safety regulations and standards, providing improved structural safety.”