Stadler is to build four additional electric multiple unit trains and one bi-level battery vehicle for Caltrain. The represents an option from Caltrain’s current contract with Stadler and was approved by the Caltrain Board.

Earlier this month, Caltrain announced that the California Transportation Commission had approved the allocation of funds from an $80m award from the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA). That envisaged one battery-equipped electric multiple unit (BEMU) train from Stadler capable of operating on Caltrain’s electrified section of the corridor between San Francisco and San Jose as well as the non-electrified section from San Jose to Gilroy.

The BEMU will charge while running on overhead power in the electrified service areas and then use the battery charge to travel ‘off-wire’ on the non-electrified sections. As a result, Caltrain will run a fully zero-emission service in future, learning from the implementation of the new train to provide a roadmap for successful future BEMU operations and procurements.

The four new EMUs will replace ageing diesel trains and rail cars.  Along with the BEMU demonstration, Caltrain will run more than 90% of its services using electric trains, thus benefitting travellers and communities throughout the corridor.

California Secretary Toks Omishakin said: “Making the switch from fossil fuels to electric power is vital for California to meet its transportation and climate change goals. This demonstration train will continue California’s clean energy, innovative leadership.”

Jeff Gee, Caltrain Board Chair, said:  “We’re excited to be the first in the nation to pilot this hybrid electric and battery service to extend our zero-emission service beyond our electrified service areas, which will not only allow for more sustainable and environmentally friendly operations, but also faster and more reliable travel times for riders.”

Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US, added: “Stadler is proud to continue our partnership with Caltrain and our shared mission of helping California provide zero emission travel.  With additional bi-level EMUs and this first-of-its-kind BEMU for Caltrain, Stadler is able to expand our overall portfolio for the US market, especially in the zero emission product line.”