Stadler to Deliver 8 FLIRT Trains to Texas
Stadler and Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) have signed a contract for eight FLIRT trains. These are for the Cotton Belt Project in Texas. The estimated date for entry into passenger service is 2022. This contract is worth around 119 million USD (107 million euros).
DART-Stadler Contract
DART has selected Stadler to build and assemble eight FLIRT trains. These FLIRT trains will be diesel multiple units. This aspect of the contract is worth 119 million USD. DART has also commissioned the company to design an equipment maintenance facility (EMF) for the Cotton Belt Regional Rail Project.
Stadler FLIRT DMUs for Dallas Area Rapid Transit
Each FLIRT train will have 240 seats, with further space for 225 standing passengers. Of course these trains will comply fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Stadler says it will also equip all eight trains with a CCTV system. Another feature is the automatic passenger counting system. It can determine how many passenger board and disembark at each stop. It can further locate areas of passenger crowding on board a train as well as blockages in boarding areas.
The diesel FLIRT trains meet Tier 4 emission standards as defined by the EPA and FRA. The trains in this order will be four-car units along with a power pack in the middle. This power pack will house the power unit. Stadler says this configuration consists of four powered axles and eight unpowered axles. Each train is around 81 metres long.
Stadler’s Contribution to Urban Engineers
Urban Engineers will provide the design services for the equipment maintenance facility. It is part of Stadler’s contract to give input and pass on its experience to the engineering company.
Stadler in Texas
Stadler has had three previous contracts in Texas. Its trains are in passenger service in Austin, in Lewisville and in Fort Worth.
Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler US Inc., said:
“After completing several projects in Texas already, Stadler is honored to now also supply DART with new state-of-the-art trains. We are proud that DART has chosen our FLIRT and know that we will be able to deliver a product that satisfies the customer to the highest degree.”
John, Rhone, DART VP of Capital Design and Construction, said:
“It’s been a pleasure working with Stadler US, Inc. on the design and specifications of our new Cotton Belt regional rail project trains. Their focus on technology innovation and design promises to provide our customers with the safe and enjoyable ride they’ve come to expect from DART.”
