VIA sleeping cars modernization targets 56 Budd-built cars

VIA sleeping cars modernization will see Ca$150 million over five years invested in the fleet. It will upgrade all 56 Chateau- and Manor-series sleeping cars. These stainless steel cars were built by the Budd Co. in 1954-55.

What the modernization program covers?

CAD Railway Industries of Lachine, Quebec, will upgrade key systems and car interiors. The work is meant to improve comfort and reliability. Also, it will upgrade onboard amenities for passengers on the Canadian and the Ocean.

“This investment is about delivering for Canadians today, while we build for the future,” VIA Rail CEO Mathieu Paquette said in a press release. “By modernizing these sleeper cars here in Canada, we are enhancing comfort and reliability for our passengers, supporting skilled Canadian jobs, and ensuring our services continue to meet expectations as we renew our fleet over the coming decade.”

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Meanwhile, VIA launched the procurement process in 2024. It covered new equipment for its long-distance, regional, and remote trains, as Trains.com reported. With that process expected to extend over the next decade, the sleeper-car work is intended to ensure passengers continue to have a high-quality experience during the transition.

VIA sleeping cars modernization and fleet background

Both the Chateau and Manor cars were built for Canadian Pacific. Manor cars feature a six-double-bedroom, four-bedroom, three-section configuration. Chateau-series cars have eight bedrooms, three double bedrooms, one triple bedroom, and three sections.

Under VIA, one communal shower was added to both sets of cars. It replaced one section.

“This project highlights the strength of Canada’s rail expertise and the importance of investing in domestic industrial capacity,” said David Van der Wee, CEO of CAD Railway Industries. “We are proud to support VIA Rail in delivering high-quality service to Canadians.”

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