Rail supplier news from Keolis and Wabtec (Jan. 24)

Keolis Commuter Services, the operating and maintenance partner for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s commuter-rail system, has issued a request for proposals to procure new battery-electric multiple-unit train sets for the MBTA’s Fairmount rail line in Boston. The new rolling stock must be modern multiple unit type configuration capable of operating under the overhead catenary system and via the use of on-board traction batteries. Keolis is seeking seven trains with the option for additional trains in the future. Manufacturers interested in submitting a proposal must email rsprocurement@keoliscs.com to request copies of the RFP. In addition to the rolling stock, Keolis is also seeking information and proposals from financers. Interested parties should reach out via email as well.

Wabtec Corp. announced Transap S.A., a rail-based logistics company in Chile, has ordered four of Wabtec's C30ACi locomotives as part of the Transap fleet renewal. The new C30ACis are the first AC-traction locomotives in the company's fleet. Transap will use the locomotives haul freight for forestry company Arauco. The C30ACis are designed for higher pulling capacity and to operate on sharp curves and tight clearances, said Danilo Miyasato, Wabtec’s president and regional leader of Latin America, in a press release. A contract dollar amount was not disclosed in the press release.