Author: Batrak Oleksandr — Editor-in-Chief at Railway Supply

VIA Rail sleeper railcars modernization is moving forward under a USD 150 million program. It covers the operator’s full Château and Manor fleet. The program includes 56 vehicles over the next five years.

Via Rail service improvement questioned in audit
Photo: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

The Canadian passenger operator said the initiative is part of its strategy. It is intended to improve the passenger experience. Also, it is meant to strengthen Canada’s passenger rail system. That strategy is outlined in the VIA Rail announcement.

VIA Rail sleeper railcars modernization program

CAD Railway Industries, based in Lachine, Québec, was awarded the contract. It will modernize the Château and Manor sleeper railcars. The company will upgrade essential systems and interiors. The work is intended to improve comfort, reliability, and onboard service quality. It affects passengers traveling on The Ocean and The Canadian. Those long-distance routes are considered flagships of the VIA Rail network, as Railway Supply noted.

VIA Rail said the project will generate more than 100 skilled jobs. These roles include engineering, project management, and technical trades. In addition, the project is expected to support economic development in the Montréal region. It is also meant to strengthen the industrial capabilities of the Canadian rail sector.

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“Modernizing these railcars in Canada means greater comfort and reliability for passengers, support for the skilled workforce, and ensuring that our services remain at high standards, alongside the renewal of our fleet over the next decade,” said Mathieu Paquette, CEO of VIA Rail.

Fleet renewal and long-distance services

In the coming years, the operator will continue to modernize trains on its network. These services include long-distance, regional, and service to remote areas. At the same time, VIA Rail has begun procurement procedures for new locomotives and railcars. The entire fleet is set to be replaced over the next ten years. That timeline was reported by RailwayPro.

The current modernization program is intended to maintain a high level of service during the transition. It is also meant to provide passengers with comfortable and safe travel conditions.

Canadian rail sector and domestic suppliers

David Van der Wee is CEO of CAD Railway Industries. He said the project highlights the high level of expertise in Canada’s railway industry. He also pointed to the importance of investing in domestic industrial capabilities. “We are proud to partner with VIA Rail to deliver high-quality service to passengers across Canada,” he emphasized.

In parallel with this program, VIA Rail continues to invest in other equipment. This work takes place at its own technical centers. It includes maintenance and modernization work. The approach combines in-house expertise with industry partnerships.

The project also reflects VIA Rail’s commitment to supporting the domestic industry. It also aligns with Canadian government priorities regarding public procurement. The majority of the company’s procurement spending goes to Canadian suppliers. This contributes to the development of local skills, job creation, and national economic growth.

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