Kawasaki Rail Car celebrated the release of its 5,000th railcar in the United States, marking its 40th anniversary in the American market. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Kawasaki Rail Car
Photo: Kawasaki Rail Car

The company highlighted the significance of its contribution to the economy of New York State and its transportation system.

Major political and economic figures attended the event, held at Kawasaki’s factory in Yonkers. Among them were New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, MTA Chairman Janno Lieber, and Westchester County Deputy Executive Ken Jenkins.

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Since entering the U.S. market in 1979, Kawasaki Rail Car has delivered railcars worth over $12 billion. The Yonkers plant has become a key production center, with 30% of contracts awarded to New York State companies and 10% to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises.

Out of the total number of railcars produced, 3,783 units were delivered to the New York region. These cars serve key transit systems such as New York City Transit, Metro-North Railroad, and Long Island Railroad, significantly strengthening the city’s transportation infrastructure.

Kawasaki Rail Car’s activities in Yonkers have created thousands of jobs in New York State. The company’s contribution to the region’s rail system has been highly praised by both local and state leaders. Steady collaboration with MTA over 40 years has greatly modernized the public transportation system.

“We are proud to have played a key role in improving New York City’s subway system,” noted MTA Chairman Janno Lieber. He also emphasized that new investments in fleet modernization are planned as part of the capital plan for 2025-29.

Kawasaki Rail Car President Yusuke Hirose also noted that the company is proud of its collaboration with key partners, including New York State, MTA, and other organizations.

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