South Korean rolling stock manufacturer Woojin Industrial Systems has signed a contract worth $210 million with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) to modernize 74 metro cars built in 1999 by the Italian company AnsaldoBreda, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Woojin Industrial Systems to Modernize Los Angeles Metro Trains
Photo: Woojin Industrial Systems

This extensive project is being undertaken ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics and aims to enhance the reliability and comfort of the city’s transportation system.

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The modernization, which will take 4 years and 8 months, includes the installation of new traction control and monitoring systems, as well as non-traction power systems.

Additionally, informational displays and air conditioning equipment will be installed, significantly improving conditions for passengers.

The contractor selection process was long and thorough. Woojin Industrial Systems submitted its proposal in December 2022.

In July 2023, LACMTA representatives visited Woojin’s plant in the USA to evaluate the company’s capabilities.

The final proposal was submitted in November 2023, and in February 2024, Woojin was announced as the winner of the tender.

Woojin has a plant in Santa Fe Springs, Los Angeles County, which was opened in 2011 specifically to serve the American market.

To fulfill the current contract with LACMTA, the South Korean company plans to build a new facility.

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All work will be carried out in accordance with the Buy America Act, which requires that products for government contracts be manufactured in the USA.

The Los Angeles metro car modernization project highlights the importance of international cooperation and technology exchange.

Thanks to its experience and production facilities in the USA, Woojin Industrial Systems can successfully complete such an ambitious project, ensuring high quality and compliance with all standards.

This project will not only improve Los Angeles’ infrastructure but also make a significant contribution to the city’s preparation for the important international event – the 2028 Olympic Games.

Photo: Woojin Industrial Systems

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