By Railfan & Railroad Staff

WASHINGTON — Amtrak has selected California-based Siemens Mobility, Inc. as its preferred builder to construct a fleet of new passenger cars that will be used on the Northeast Corridor and state-supported routes. The new cars, which will be based on ones that were recently delivered for Amtrak’s Midwest services, will replace Amfleet I, Metroliner and Talgo cars currently in use on the Cascades service. 

“This new state-of-the-art equipment will not only provide Amtrak customers with an enjoyable and efficient travel experience, it will also enable us to improve safety, increase passenger capacity and reduce carbon emissions,” said Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn.

Siemens is expected to begin construction on the cars this summer. Amtrak is also securing a long-term agreement with the company to provide replacement parts and technical support.