Hitachi Rail has officially launched its new metro cars into revenue service on the Maryland Transit Administration's (MTA) Baltimore Metro Subway Link, marking a significant advancement in the line's fleet and rail control systems upgrade.
This initiative is part of a broader effort initiated under a contract signed in 2017, aimed at replacing and modernizing Baltimore's heavy-rail rolling stock and train control equipment, which had not seen upgrades since 1983. The project is valued at $400.5 million and includes a total replacement of 78 railcars, with 12 already delivered.
The new railcars, produced at Hitachi Rail's recently opened manufacturing facility in Hagerstown, Maryland, feature bi-directional stainless steel designs with a seating capacity of 76 and a total capacity of 196 passengers. They are equipped with ADA-compliant interiors, LED lighting, and advanced passenger information systems.
Kathryn Thomson, Acting Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation, emphasized the importance of the new vehicles, describing them as a “generational investment” that goes beyond mere fleet replacement to enhance the region's transportation infrastructure.
Hitachi Rail's SelTrac™ Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology is also being integrated into this modernization effort, which is expected to improve operational performance, increase capacity, and enable more efficient maintenance practices.
Joseph Pozza, President of Hitachi Rail in the U.S., called the commencement of revenue service a “historic moment” for the region, highlighting the upgrades as a means to meet evolving passenger needs sustainably.
The Hagerstown facility, which covers 307,000 square feet, is designed to produce up to 20 railcars monthly and employs approximately 460 workers. It incorporates innovative manufacturing technologies such as real-time supply chain monitoring and 3D printing for local component production.
As the remaining railcars are scheduled for phased delivery, full integration into the existing fleet is anticipated over the coming months.
Reported by HarborBeat based on Railway Supply (source).
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