Bombardier Accepts National Railroad Hall of Fame Award on Behalf of Edward G. Budd

Bombardier Transportation was recently recognized during the National Railroad Hall of Fame’s 2015 Induction Ceremony for Edward Gowen Budd, founder of the Edward G. Budd Manufacturing Co. in Philadelphia in 1912. Bombardier acquired the passenger rail car designs and related assets of the mass transit equipment division of this legendary U.S. railcar manufacturer in 1987.

Budd made history in 1934 when he introduced the nation’s first stainless-steel, diesel-streamliner, the Pioneer Zephyr. The Zephyr’s stainless-steel fluted skirt structure was made with Budd’s proprietary shot-welding process, a breakthrough that inaugurated the modern age of metal fabrication. The streamliner’s light weight and aerodynamic shape improved fuel economy and enabled it to travel faster than any train had ever traveled.

Hall of Fame Chair Jay Matson said, “Budd’s pioneering advances in manufacturing techniques transformed the passenger and commuter trains of the world.”

Bombardier Vice President Business Development and Sales, U.S. Robert Furniss said, “We are honored to accept this award on Edward Budd’s behalf. Bombardier appreciates his significant contributions to the passenger rail car industry and is proud to be carrying on his legacy as an innovator and leader in modern mobility.”

The National Railroad Hall of Fame was established in 2003 when resolutions of the U.S. Congress recognized the organization and designated its home in Galesburg, Illinois.