USA : Hitachi Rail has announced that it has received an order from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) in Philadelphia for new “M-5” subway cars to be deployed on the Market-Frankford Line.
A total of 200 cars have been ordered, with an option to purchase up to 40 additional cars.
The contract is valued at $724.3 million, with the prototype expected to arrive in 2028 and full-scale production starting in 2029.
Additional Information
SEPTA is a public transportation authority that operates subways, commuter trains, streetcars, and buses, primarily serving the Philadelphia area.
Due to this extensive service network, SEPTA has received a grant of $317 million from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), which covers half of the budget for the new cars.
The Market-Frankford Line (commonly known as the “L”) currently uses German-made Adtranz “M-4” cars.
Key Features of the New M-5 Cars
*Automatic doors
*Digital route displays with real-time data
*Regenerative braking systems to reduce energy consumption
*Inter-car passages that enhance passenger flow and visibility for law enforcement
*Increased passenger capacity
*Improved passenger communication systems
*Longitudinal seating
*Handrails for standing passengers
*Digital technology to enhance reliability
The new cars will be manufactured at Hitachi Rail’s U.S. facility in Maryland and delivered accordingly.
Related articles
Sources
- Hitachi rail(2024-6-25) ,”SEPTA Board Awards Contract for Purchase of New Market-Frankford Line Fleet“
