Shiny New Trainsets

Metra offers first look at battery-powered models set for next year

Leave it to Chicago to unveil some shiny new trains. The longtime rail hub has seen many of the industry's greatest advancements, and earlier this month, it displayed new models that could eventually earn that reputation, as well, by way of its Metra regional rail service, which serves the surrounding suburbs and the city itself.

Riders were invited to LaSalle Street Station in the Chicago Loop to view the first of Metra’s new battery-powered trainsets from Stadler, which were on display at the station for two days, according to an October 6 Metra press release. The trainset was on display at LaSalle St. Station on October 14th and 16th after being debuted at the recent American Public Transportation Association expo at McCormick Place, also in Chicago.

Metra is buying eight four-car trainsets from Stadler U.S. of Salt Lake City, Utah, and has the option of ordering eight more. The first one is expected to go into service in 2028, after it undergoes about a year of testing. 

The trainsets, which rely on onboard lithium-ion batteries and Stadler's proven FLIRT platform, are designed to help transit agencies deploy electric service on routes where traditional electrification may not be financially feasible or practical, which could make them ideal in Metra’s complex rail environment.

Metra believes the battery-powered trainsets could be a more economical and environmentally friendly way to provide the same level of service or better, particularly during off-peak times, compared to its diesel trains. It plans to introduce the trainsets between LaSalle St. and Blue Island on the Beverly Branch of the Rock Island Line, a distance of 16.4 miles.