Kawasaki was also awarded a contract worth $1.507 billion for 378 new R268 metro cars for the MTA, a testament to New York’s biggest transit upgrade in several decades.

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

Kawasaki Expands Role in New York’s Subway Modernization
Photo, source: www.railwaypro.com

Kawasaki Strengthens Partnership with the MTA

Governor Kathy Hochul also announced plans of a total of 378 new R268 metro cars worth $1.507 billion in an investment by the MTA in a continued partnership with Kawasaki. This marks a crucial milestone in the phasing out of dated trains of type R68/R68A with CBTC technology.

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Delivery will begin in autumn 2028 and will continue through 2030. This project is part of a total of $68 billion within its 2025–2029 Capital Plan, which is fully supported by the State Legislature and Governor Hochul. This particular project also ensures that the subway system is efficient and reliable because it upgrades rolling stock and infrastructure at the same time.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber specifically noted that “this new train type will preclude service disruptions and extend network lifespan.” By essentially building upon learnings from its previous work in developing the R211 trains, it was able to save costs.

Kawasaki Boosts Local Manufacturing and Innovation

Kawasaki will build its new order of R268 cars at its facility in Yonkers, ensuring that hundreds of highly skilled jobs remain in the state. In fact, it has already supplied over 4,000 subway cars to New York City Transit in previous orders.

“This project showcases New York’s dedication to excellent train manufacturing,” said President Yusuke Hirose. In fact, because it is produced locally, it will also serve as a boost to New York’s manufacturing capabilities while adhering to strict standards of safety and efficacy.

In addition, all of the new R268 trains will have brighter cars, digital signs, easily accessible seating, and security cameras. Therefore, commuters will enjoy a smooth, secure, and comfy experience. NYC Transit’s president, Demetrius Crichlow, said that through an upgraded CBTC system, commuters will enjoy faster and frequent trains.

Jamie Torres-Springer, president of MTA Construction and Development, described the program as a “generational investment that will provide long-term comfort and reliability throughout our network.”

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What role does Kawasaki play in New York’s transit system?

Kawasaki manufactures advanced subway cars for the MTA, including the new R268 series, supporting modernization and local job creation.

How does the Kawasaki R268 fleet improve passenger service?

The R268 trains enhance comfort with brighter interiors, digital signage, and CBTC technology that enables faster and more reliable service.

Where will Kawasaki build the new subway cars?

The R268 fleet will be produced at Kawasaki’s Yonkers facility, ensuring strong local manufacturing and economic impact.