New Jersey Transit (NJT) has taken delivery of the first of 374 new Multilevel III (ML III) railcars from Alstom. The currently un-numbered unit, lettered “TEST CAR,” is powered, and among the first of its kind in the North America. It will undergo several months of final testing and commissioning in New Jersey before being joined by up to 40 additional new cars expected to be deployed into passenger service later this year
In development for several years by NJT and Alstom, the ML III is an evolution of the ML I and II railcars currently in service. It’s an EMU (electric multiple-unit. EMUs, NJT notes, “provide better acceleration than locomotive-driven trainsets.”
There are three ML III variations: Power Car, Trailer Car and Cab (Control) Car. With options, NJT has ordered 374: 100 Cabs, 18 Restroom-Equipped Trailers, 144 Trailers and 112 Power. The ratio is one Power Car to two Trailers/Cabs; thus, the smallest consist is three units comprised of a Power Car sandwiched in between two Cabs. Train size is limited only to platform length; NJT could operate trainsets as long as 14 units, though typical consists will most likely be 10-12 cars. NJT is naming such consists as “hybrid.”
Manufactured by Alstom in Plattsburgh, N.Y., the ML IIIs will completely replace NJT’s aging Arrow III EMUs, last rebuilt by ABB Traction (now part of Alstom) in the mid-1990s, as well as older single-level Comet II, III and IV cars acquired during the agency’s 40-year history. Rated at 110 mph maximum operating speed (10 mph higher than the ML I and II), they tout “a dramatic improvement in mechanical reliability” of an estimated 400,000 miles MDBF (Mean Distance Between Failure), according to NJT. The FRA has granted NJT a waiver to allow federally mandated shop inspections to occur every 184 days, rather than the customary 92.
In addition, the ML IIIs feature amenities such as USB charging ports in every row as well as audio announcements and digital signs informing passengers of upcoming station stops.
In January, NJT unveiled the first River LINE DLRV (diesel light rail vehicle) to feature a fully renovated passenger compartment and a recent engine overhaul “as part of continuing efforts to enhance the customer experience and improve service reliability.” Improvements include new LED lighting and seating, new flooring, updated signage and more. This first renovated vehicle is wrapped in graphics celebrating the U.S. 250th birthday. NJT plans to upgrade 14 over the next few years.
Additionally, NJT authorized in November 2015 funding not to exceed $917.1 million, plus 10% for contingencies, to overhaul its fleet of 329 first-generation Bombardier (now Alstom) Multilevel I railcars delivered between 2006-2009, and 100 Multilevel IIs delivered between 2012-2013. An Expression of Interest (EOI) process was launched “to identify qualified rail vehicle overhaul contractors with proven experience in large-scale commuter railcar mid-life overhaul programs,” the agency said. “The EOI process will invite contractors to submit their qualifications, capabilities, and relevant project experience. Based on the evaluation of EOIs received, NJT will develop a list of contractors that will be invited to participate in the final procurement and contract award stage.”
“The introduction of new railcars, buses and light rail vehicles is central to strengthening the reliability our customers depend on every day,” said NJT President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “These investments are designed to deliver more consistent service while improving comfort, convenience and accessibility across our system.”
“Governor Mikie Sherrill and Kris Kolluri have made clear that the state’s residents deserve a strong, reliable rail system,” said President and CEO of Alstom Americas Michael Keroullé. “Alstom is proud to be part of the progress that their team is making. The [U.S.]-made Multilevel III fleet helps New Jersey deliver on this commitment, offering reliable vehicles with modern amenities, greater capacity and a more comfortable ride for passengers.”
Editor’s Commentary: In press releases, New Jersey Transit has always spelled its name as “NJ TRANSIT.” This has puzzled me for years, because where I come from, an all-caps word is an acronym, or a logo. We do not use “NJ TRANSIT,” as you can see in the above article. (No experienced reporter or editor would, unless they are a cut-and-paste artist.) So then, what does the TRANSIT acronym mean (“NJ” is obvious—New Jersey)? How about “Train Riding Absolutely Negates Sitting in Traffic”? Maybe I should copyright this? Hey, NJT, if you like it, contact me and we can negotiate a reasonable licensing agreement! – William C. Vantuono.
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