MBTA issues RFP for new locomotives

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) this week released a request for proposals for new battery-electric and low-emissions locomotives for its regional rail service. 

The new locomotives are part of the agency's broader effort to modernize its rail fleet and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Contracts are slated to be awarded this summer.

The MBTA is leading a joint procurement of battery-electric locomotives and Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives to ensure reliable service for current and future passengers. The T will procure 10 battery-electric locomotives for initial deployment on the Providence Line, which has existing electric power infrastructure, and 10 Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives for lines without electric infrastructure. 

Both locomotive types will significantly reduce emissions, noise and vibrations for passengers and abutters, MBTA officials said in a press release.

The procurement will include options for up to 50 additional locomotives to support future expansion of regional rail modernization, as funding and infrastructure allow.

 “A modernized and reliable regional rail system has been talked about for a long time, and now we are taking action with this significant first step of procuring battery-electric locomotives,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng in a press release.

Also this week, MBTA announced it's developing a rail modernization plan, which will identify near-term investments and long-term needs to improve the rail system's frequency, reliability and accessibility while advancing decarbonization strategies. The agency will engage the public in developing the plan's priorities, according to an MBTA press release.