Metra is ushering in a new era of eco-friendly transit in Chicago.
The transit organization unveiled its new state-of-the-art battery-powered trainset at LaSalle Street Station on Wednesday, October 14.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the future of rail service in the Windy City.
Introducing Metra’s new electric train fleet
Metra’s new electric train will launch along the Beverly Branch of the Rock Island line between LaSalle Street Station and Blue Island, Illinois, according to a release.
Swiss rail designer Stadler manufactures the train model. Metra will purchase the trains from Stadler’s U.S. headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah.
The train relies on lithium-ion batteries for power and reflects Stadler’s Fast Light Innovative Regional Train (FLIRT) design, a single-decker train model.
The individual four-car-trains will seat 208 passengers and feature ADA-accessible elements like low-level boarding and lifts.
Cars are equipped with bike racks, luggage storage compartments, USB outlets, directional signage, and two ADA-accessible bathrooms per trainset.
Open gangways will allow passengers to move freely from car-to-car during their commute.
Metra plans 2028 launch for zero-emission train service
Metra is eyeing a 2028 timeline for launching service across the electric fleet. The passenger trains will undergo testing throughout 2027.
The transit organization plans to purchase eight four-car trainsets, with the option to add another eight trainsets in the future.
“These will be the first battery-powered trainsets to operate in North America, and they’re unlike anything Metra has operated before,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski.
“These zero-emission trainsets will be cleaner and quieter, and we hope they will play a key role in helping Metra to operate more frequent, all-day service and improve connectivity with CTA and Pace.”
