Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has been awarded a groundbreaking contract valued at 2.0 billion euros (2.3 billion USD) to manufacture 316 advanced commuter rail cars for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad, two key commuter rail systems operated by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). This monumental project also includes an option for up to 242 additional rail cars, valued at up to 1.3 billion euros (1.5 billion USD), which could significantly expand Alstom’s footprint in the region.
The contract is a part of the MTA’s efforts to modernize its fleet and improve the overall passenger experience. The M-9A passenger vehicles will replace the aging M-3 cars, which have been in service for over four decades. These new cars will bring cutting-edge technology, comfort, and accessibility to the commuters who rely on these essential services daily. Designed to offer a quieter, smoother, and more reliable ride, the M-9A trains will feature modern amenities such as USB charging ports, accessible restrooms, ample space for wheelchairs, and extra-wide doors on each side to facilitate faster boarding and disembarking.
Boosting Local Employment and Manufacturing Capacity
The manufacturing of the M-9A cars will create nearly 300 new jobs across Alstom’s two production facilities in upstate New York, marking a significant boost to the local economy. These roles will be primarily filled by members of the International Association of Machinists (IAM) union, reinforcing Alstom’s commitment to local workforce development. The production will be split between several locations: the Hornell site in the Southern Tier of New York will focus on assembling the trains, while the Plattsburgh facility in the Adirondack region will handle the assembly of the bogies (undercarriages). Additionally, the propulsion systems for these trains will be produced at Alstom’s plant in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.
The Hornell site, renowned for its 170-year history of rail excellence, stands as the largest passenger rail manufacturing facility in the United States. The facility’s modernized infrastructure, including the newly opened Plant 4, was specifically designed to “reshore” the manufacturing of the car body shells, ensuring that Alstom continues to support U.S. manufacturing capabilities.
Improved Passenger Experience with Sustainable Features
The new M-9A passenger cars will be a game-changer for commuters in New York. These fully electric multiple units (EMUs) will run on electrified tracks, eliminating the need for a traditional locomotive to propel the trains. By offering direct propulsion in each car, the M-9A units promise better efficiency, smoother operations, and increased reliability. In addition to enhancing the ride quality, the vehicles will be fully compliant with the latest cybersecurity standards, ensuring the protection of internal systems and external communications.
The MTA has prioritized sustainability in its procurement, and the M-9A trains reflect this focus. These state-of-the-art cars are designed to minimize their environmental footprint while providing superior energy efficiency. The combination of improved passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and reduced emissions is a testament to Alstom’s dedication to sustainable mobility solutions.
Strengthening Alstom’s Legacy in U.S. Rail Manufacturing
This contract further strengthens Alstom’s position as a leading provider of rolling stock and rail services in the United States. With over 12,000 new or renovated vehicles delivered to domestic rail agencies, including those in major cities like New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C., Alstom has proven itself as a reliable partner to the U.S. transportation sector. The company is also spearheading the development of a new high-speed fleet for Amtrak, solidifying its role in shaping the future of U.S. rail transportation.
The addition of the M-9A cars to the MTA’s fleet will bring Alstom’s total number of rail cars produced for the authority to approximately 5,400, cementing its longstanding relationship with the MTA. This is a significant milestone for Alstom, as it continues to deliver innovative rail solutions that support urban mobility, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable travel across major U.S. cities.
Alstom’s Global Expertise and Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
Alstom’s expertise in commuter rail systems is backed by more than 60 years of experience in the rail industry. The company’s Adessia commuter rail portfolio, which the M-9A cars are part of, represents one of the most sustainable means of transportation across cities and suburbs. With over 40,000 rail cars sold to more than 60 commuter systems in over 15 countries, Alstom’s trains transport over 20 million passengers daily, offering safe, reliable, and eco-friendly journeys.
The M-9A trains, as part of the Adessia portfolio, will help to further reduce the carbon footprint of urban transportation networks in New York. The high-floor multiple units are available in both single-deck and double-deck configurations and are designed to run in all climatic conditions. They can operate at speeds ranging from 120 to 200 km/h (75 to 124 mph) on both electrified and non-electrified networks, making them adaptable to diverse transit systems across the globe.
Expanding Alstom’s U.S. Presence
Alstom’s operations in the U.S. extend far beyond the MTA project. The company has a notable presence across New York state, with offices in Rochester and Manhattan, a service and maintenance site for the JFK AirTrain in Queens, and overhaul and maintenance facilities in Kanona. In addition to the commuter rail market, Alstom is a leading operator of automated people movers at 15 airports across the U.S., providing essential transport solutions in major travel hubs.
The company’s commitment to reshoring and strengthening the U.S. manufacturing sector through projects like the M-9A train contract aligns with its broader vision to drive innovation, sustainability, and local job creation. Alstom’s focus on local production, coupled with its international expertise, underscores the company’s dedication to providing high-quality transportation solutions that meet the needs of communities around the world.
Conclusion: A Transformative Step for New York’s Commuter Rail System
Alstom’s 2.0 billion euro contract with the MTA to produce the M-9A passenger vehicles is a significant step forward in the modernization of New York’s commuter rail system. With its focus on passenger comfort, sustainability, and job creation, this project will transform the daily commute for thousands of New Yorkers while contributing to the state’s economic growth. As the leading provider of innovative rail solutions, Alstom’s continued investment in U.S. manufacturing and commitment to sustainable mobility will play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban transportation in the years to come.
