USA: Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority has unveiled the designs for the CQ400 metro trains to be supplied by Stadler from 2023.
This follows a public outreach programme which MARTA said led to its users choosing ‘comfort and technology for the interior and sleek minimalism for the exterior’ of the trains.
The interiors will meet ADA accessibility requirements, and will feature wide gangways, large doors, a mix of forward and inward facing seats and ‘spacious’ areas for luggage and bicycles.
There will be charging point, digital network maps and service information and ‘small upgrades that make a big difference on the daily commute’ including wind screens near the doors and improved heating, cooling and lighting.
The ‘minimalist’ exterior design option selected by the public is an ‘understated work of art’. It features a ‘smile’ which will be illuminated in Red, Gold, Green or Blue according to the line colour of the route on which the train is running.
The rolling stock contract awarded to Stadler in 2019 covers 254 cars worth $646m for delivery in 2023-28, with two options each for 50 cars.
The contract was the largest single rolling stock order placed by MARTA or won by Stadler, and will enable the existing fleets to be withdrawn.
The vehicles will be assembled at Stadler’s factory in Salt Lake City, with the company being contractually obliged to create at least 60% of the project’s value in the USA.
