NJ TRANSIT's Board of Directors has approved the purchase of 36 additional self-propelled Multilevel III rail cars (EMUs), enhancing the capacity and reliability of its fleet. The new Multilevel III cars, designed to increase seating capacity and mechanical reliability, will feature several modern amenities. These include USB charging ports, onboard information displays, and compliance with the latest federal regulations, including Positive Train Control. The cars are designed to reach speeds of up to 110 miles per hour.
The contract for these new cars leverages options on an existing agreement with Alstom Transportation, with a budget not to exceed €159 million plus contingencies. This order builds on the previous purchase of 138 Multilevel III vehicles, currently in production. The first of these vehicles is expected to arrive in New Jersey for testing later this year.
This procurement traces back to December 2018, when the NJ TRANSIT Board awarded a contract to Bombardier Transit Corporation (now Alstom Transportation Inc.) for 113 Multilevel III rail vehicles to replace the aging Arrow III units. An additional 25 vehicles were approved for purchase in February 2022.
NJ TRANSIT operates the largest statewide public transportation system in the U.S., providing over 925,000 weekday trips across its extensive network. This includes 263 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines, and Access Link paratransit service, connecting major points in New Jersey, New York, and Philadelphia.
