SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) is adding to its order of new low-floor light rail vehicles from Siemens Mobility (Siemens) with an additional order of nine S700 vehicles. This order builds on the previous order of 36, bringing the total number of trains ordered to 45. SacRT’s contract with Siemens is for the purchase of up to 76 new low-floor light rail vehicles.

“As we continue to prioritize the enhancement of our transit system, I am thrilled to announce the purchase of nine additional new low floor light rail vehicles,” said SacRT General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “By investing in these state-of-the-art trains, we are not only elevating the transit experience for our riders but also reinforcing our dedication to a sustainable future for the Sacramento region.”

“We are grateful to Sacramento Regional Transit for this latest order of nine light rail vehicles, and excited to continue our long-standing partnership,” said Michael Cahill, President Rolling Stock Siemens Mobility North America. “Bringing SacRT’s fleet of S700 LRVs to 45 new low floor vehicles is an exciting feat that highlights our dedication to the region. These American made trains built right here in Sacramento by our team of more than 2,500 will help to elevate rail travel in our community.”

“Once again, Sacramento is at the forefront of innovation in public transit, thanks to the collaborative efforts of SacRT and Siemens Mobility,” said Congresswoman Doris Matsui. “This investment underscores the importance of federal support for our region’s transportation infrastructure. By leveraging resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are creating job opportunities and paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient transit system.”

“This order for nine additional light rail trains will enhance the rider’s experience and improve accessibility for all members of our community,” said Congressman Ami Bera. “I applaud SacRT’s proactive approach to investing in the future of transportation, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these new trains will have on our region.”

“Securing this additional order of light rail trains marks a significant milestone in SacRT’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and provide reliable, accessible transportation options for Sacramento residents,” said SacRT Board Chair and Sacramento County Supervisor Patrick Kennedy. “We are not only improving the quality of service for our riders but also reaffirming our commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. These new trains will play a vital role in enhancing the overall transit experience and supporting the continued growth and development of our region.”

The S700 low-floor vehicles have platform boarding at every doorway and allow riders in mobility devices to board using a deployable ramp at the two center doors instead of having to use a mini-high ramp. Each vehicle features four dedicated wheelchair locations. The spacious seating design with larger windows allows for better light and views. In addition, the vehicles have better temperature control for heating and cooling and improved reliability with remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance.

Siemens has already delivered 20 new S700 low-floor light rail vehicles to SacRT’s light rail facility in north Sacramento where they are undergoing rigorous testing procedures. These tests are vital to ensuring the trains meet stringent safety and performance standards before being integrated into service, which is expected to begin on the Gold and Green lines in summer 2024. The Blue Line will continue to operate the current high-floor light rail trains, which still require riders in mobility devices and those unable to climb stairs to use the mini-high ramps at the ends of the station platforms. SacRT will begin construction on Blue Line station platforms to meet the height requirements of the new low-floor trains in late 2024 and construction is expected to be completed by 2027. Learn more about SacRT’s Light Rail Modernization Project at sacrt.com/modernization.

The S700 vehicles for SacRT are manufactured by Siemens Mobility in south Sacramento, keeping jobs in the region. The plant is one of the largest and most sustainable facilities in the U.S. and is part of Siemens Mobility’s larger U.S. manufacturing network of eight facilities, nearly 4,500 employees and 2,000 suppliers.