NJ Transit unveils first new multilevel rail car as $3B fleet modernization advances
NEW JERSEY – NJ Transit officials on Tuesday showcased the first of a new generation of multilevel rail cars as part of a sweeping effort to modernize the agency’s fleet of trains, buses and support vehicles.
The rail car is the first of 374 Multilevel III cars set to be delivered, representing a major component of a more than $3 billion investment aimed at upgrading the system by 2031. The car will undergo several months of testing before entering passenger service, with additional cars expected later this year.
“New Jersey commuters deserve a transit system that is reliable and state-of-the-art,” said Gov. Mikie Sherrill. “That’s why my budget makes a historic investment to modernize one of the oldest rail fleets in the nation—starting with 40 new rail cars and 250 new buses this year. By upgrading its fleet of vehicles, NJ TRANSIT is providing greater comfort, efficiency, and dependability to riders statewide. Combined with historic projects like the Portal North Bridge and Gateway Tunnel, we’re making sure commuters have a better ride now and in the future.”
Officials said the new rail cars will replace aging equipment dating back to the 1970s and are designed to be significantly more reliable, traveling up to 400,000 miles between mechanical failures compared to 30,000 to 40,000 miles for older cars. The cars will also feature increased seating capacity, improved accessibility, onboard information screens and USB charging ports, with top speeds reaching 110 mph.
“Nearly 1,000,000 people across New Jersey, New York City, and Philadelphia rely on NJ TRANSIT every day as the nation’s largest statewide public transportation system. This more than $3 billion investment is critical to making their daily travel safer, more reliable, and better equipped to meet growing demand,” said Sen. Cory Booker. “I have long championed this effort to ensure New Jersey’s passenger rail riders can count on a modern, safe system, and I’m excited about this transformative investment, which will deliver new railcars, buses, paratransit vehicles, and public safety infrastructure.”
“Today marks another step forward in modernizing our public transit to meet the needs of New Jersey commuters by offering more reliable and accessible transit,” said Sen. Andy Kim. “I look forward to continuing to partner with colleagues at the federal and state level to continue these upgrades and deliver New Jerseyans the transit they deserve.”
The unveiling took place at NJ Transit’s Meadows Maintenance Complex, where officials also highlighted new buses, paratransit vehicles and a mobile police command center as part of the broader modernization effort.
“From getting passengers to their destinations faster and improving reliability, to enhancing customer amenities, this new fleet is a prime example of the stronger federal infrastructure investments we should be making,” said Rep. Nellie Pou. “New Jerseyans need a transit system they can rely on, and I am proud to partner with Governor Mikie Sherrill and the entire team at NJ TRANSIT to make our public transit system faster, safer, and more accessible for all.”
“The federal funding we secured for NJ TRANSIT’s fleet modernization is delivering more reliable service for our residents,” said Rep. Rob Menendez. “We worked closely with NJ TRANSIT to support their efforts to improve the commuting experience across New Jersey and to purchase new trains, buses, and vehicles through federal grants. I look forward to continuing our partnership to make commuting an easier and more seamless experience for our constituents.”
“This investment in a modern, reliable, and accessible transit fleet is exactly the kind of forward-looking commitment Jersey needs,” said Rep. Josh Gottheimer. “From new Multilevel III railcars to upgraded buses and new wheelchair-accessible vans, these improvements will enhance the daily experience of riders, strengthen safety, and better connect our communities. NJ TRANSIT’s historic modernization effort represents a major step toward a cleaner, more efficient, and more resilient system — one that meets the needs of everyday families who rely on it. I commend everyone involved for their leadership and dedication to delivering a world-class transit system for hard-working Jersey families.”
Transportation officials said the upgrades also include new 40-foot buses with improved accessibility features, upgraded River LINE light rail vehicles and new Access Link paratransit vehicles designed for easier boarding.
“Modernizing our fleet of rail cars, buses, light rail and Access Link vehicles is essential to delivering the reliable and high-quality service our customers expect and deserve,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Priya Jain. “Providing an improved travel experience is one of our core principles, and these new vehicles play a critical role in achieving that goal.”
“The introduction of new rail cars, buses and light rail vehicles is central to strengthening the reliability our customers depend on every day,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “These investments are designed to deliver more consistent service while improving comfort, convenience, and accessibility across our system.”
Officials said the modernization effort also includes a new mobile police command center equipped with advanced communications technology to support both emergency response and planned events.
“Governor Mikie Sherrill and NJ TRANSIT CEO Kris Kolluri have made clear that the state’s residents deserve a strong, reliable rail system,” said Michael Keroullé, president and CEO of Alstom Americas. “Alstom is proud to be part of the progress that their team is making. The American-made Multilevel III fleet helps New Jersey deliver on their commitment, offering reliable vehicles with modern amenities, greater capacity, and a more comfortable ride for passengers.”
NJ Transit officials said the upgrades are part of a long-term strategy to improve reliability, expand capacity and enhance the overall rider experience across the state’s transit system.
