Alstom boosts NJ TRANSIT with advanced rail cars

Alstom was awarded a $1.1 billion contract from NJ TRANSIT for 200 Multilevel III rail cars and 12 ALP-45 dual-power locomotives. It cements the revitalization of one of America’s largest commuter networks.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

It constitutes a total Multilevel III purchase for NJ TRANSIT of 374 cars. The cars are replacing single-level 40-year-old cars, increasing passenger capacity by more than 12%, and significantly reducing major overhauls.

Technical features of Multilevel III rail cars

It enhances performance and efficiency. Relative to earlier coaches, cars in this series are capable of 10–20 times greater travel distances per critical repair. As well, sophisticated diagnostic tools boost safety and lower operating downtime.

Don’t miss…Alstom secures €538m contract for battery trains in New Zealand

Passenger facilities include computerized audio messages, electronic route indications, and USB power outlets. Currently, one-third of the fleet are multilevel power cars (MLPCs) with onboard traction, so no additional locomotives are required.

A typical 12-car train set will run on four MLPCs, with redundancy. Therefore, in the event a power car fails, others hold the train running. It increases reliability and minimizes passenger disruptions.

Dual-power locomotives for adaptable networks

As well as the new trains, NJ TRANSIT is to receive 12 ALP-45 dual-power locomotives. These are driven from electric catenary power but switch to clean diesel on non-electrified tracks, in compliance with stringent Tier IV U.S. emissions standards.

As a direct outcome of the agreement, 72 units for the ALP-45 locomotive fleet will be delivered. Dual-mode flexibility is a must for NJ TRANSIT, operating on both electrified corridors into New York City and Pennsylvania and New Jersey’s diesel corridors.

Alstom’s engagement and enduring collaboration

“Alstom prides itself on our long-standing partnership with NJ TRANSIT,” said Michael Keroullé, Alstom Americas President. “This award is a reflection of our dedication to delivering safe, state-of-the-art railcars that provide comfortable and dependable travel for our customers.”

These are the Multilevel cars, from Alstom’s Adessia commuter rail platform portfolio, with over 60 networks worldwide using it. Conversely, the ALP-45 is a participant in the Traxx Passenger portfolio, a family of multi-system locomotives engineered for adaptable use in cross-border operation.

Alstom has delivered more than 12,000 new or reused cars to U.S. transit authorities, such as those serving Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, and New York. Therefore, the project cements Alstom’s U.S. presence while supporting the modernization program of NJ TRANSIT.

What are the benefits of Multilevel III rail cars?

They increase seat capacity by over 12%, have advanced passenger amenities, and travel up to 20 times further between major overhauls, with a guarantee of increased reliability and efficiency.

How do ALP-45 dual-power locomotives?

These are driven by electric overhead wires where they exist and run on diesel power on non-electrified routes. They are also Tier IV U.S. compliant for a cleaner mode of operation.

How much is NJ TRANSIT investing in fleet renewal?

It is investing $1.1 billion in 200 Multilevel III commuter cars and 12 Alstom-supplied ALP-45 dual-power locomotives in one of the largest modernization projects in agency history.

Source: www.alstom.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit