Hitachi Rail SelTrac™ to enter revenue service for SEPTA's Media-Sharon Hill Line
New technology will modernize one of the last interurban trolley systems in the United States.
www.hitachirail.com
Today, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) announced the start of revenue service for its newest Communications‑Based Train Control (CBTC) digital signaling system upgrade on the Media–Sharon Hill Line. The newly integrated Hitachi Rail CBTC system will help to modernize one of the last remaining interurban trolley systems in the United States.
The upgrade will serve approximately 11.9 miles of light‑rail trolley service from the 69th Street Transportation Center to communities in Media and Sharon Hill. The system will utilize overhead electrification and trolley‑gauge tracks, while also replacing aging signal systems.
Technological Innovation Highlights
Upgraded SelTrac™ technology will provide higher system capacity with improved performance state-of-the art data analytics, lower capital investment and lifecycle costs, and flexible and scalable architecture.
New automatic train protection and automatic train supervision technology, designed to enforce operational speed limits and prevent unsafe train movements for real‑time monitoring.
Built-in wayside transponders and onboard sensors are equipped with high‑resolution vehicle location, supporting vital processes and ensuring reliable on-board operations.
An Update for Commuters
"This modern upgrade to SEPTA's trolley system is a testament to Pennsylvania's continued investment in transportation revitalization. Our advanced technology will help to deliver modern and reliable onboard operations, that will meet passenger needs for decades to come," said Joseph Pozza, President of Hitachi Rail in the USA. "Our partnership with SEPTA and the state of Pennsylvania is yet another example of Hitachi Rail's commitment to advancing transportation across the United States.
"Massimo Esposito, Senior Director, Technology Management, Hitachi Rail in North America, added: "Hitachi's state-of-the-art SelTrac™ technology will truly aid in revolutionizing operations for SEPTA's Media -Sharon Hill line – enhancing passenger experience, ensuring reliable journeys for daily passengers from start to finish."
Innovation in Pittsburgh
In Pittsburgh, Hitachi Rail in North America has been delivering rail solutions for over 100 years originally founded (Union Switch & Signal) in 1881. Through the end of the century and into the 1900s, Hitachi Rail has pioneered innovations in railway signaling, including:
• The first power interlocking system in 1882
• The first electro-pneumatic automatic train stop system in 1901
• The first inductive train control system in 1923
• The first digital rail yard control system in 1970
With a rich history in the foreground and proven innovation at the forefront, Hitachi Rail continues to make significant investments in passenger and freight rail transportation across North America – helping every passenger, customer, and community enjoy the benefits of more connected, seamless, and sustainable transport.
This Monday's announcement marks the completion of the Hitachi Rail SelTrac™ rollout for the Media-Sharon Hill line, seamlessly integrating with current operations.
About Hitachi, Ltd.
Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT(Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.
www.hitachirail.com
