Talgo-SYSTRA JV awarded contract to rebuild Metrolink cars
The Board of Directors for Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink) has awarded a $138.9-million contract to a joint venture between Talgo-SYSTRA to rebuild up to 121 Bombardier rail cars, also known as Sentinel cars.
Talgo-SYSTRA formed the joint venture in response to the Metrolink solicitation and the companies explain their JV leverages the ingenuity, resources and past performance of the two organizations.
“Our joint venture is confident that the unique combination of experience and capabilities will provide the best value and most reliable on-time performance on this rebuild project," said Talgo President & CEO Antonio Perez.
Dave Spagnolo, CEO Systra North America, added “Both Talgo and Systra have a common culture and track record of deliveries. I look forward to working in partnership with Talgo and our customer on this critical program.”
The base order is for 50 cars with an option for up to 71 additional cars. The scope of the work includes updating the control voltage and battery system, lighting, trucks, passenger communication system, remodeling restrooms, providing overhauled HVAC systems that are eco-friendly, updating door operators and controls, repainting the exterior, providing new seat cushions and coverings and installing new floor covering.
The companies note that the contract aims to improve the reliability and appearance of the existing fleet of passenger cars while complying with current standards and regulations for the benefit and comfort the passengers.
Overhaul work will be completed at Talgo’s facilities in Milwaukee, with delivery of the first cars to Metrolink expected 450 days following Notice to Proceed. After the first 10 cars are received, Metrolink is planning for the delivery of batches of five cars every 90 days. The 50th car is expected to be delivered April 2023.
Mischa Wanek-Libman | Group Editorial Director
Mischa Wanek-Libman is director of communications with Transdev North America. She has more than 20 years of experience working in the transportation industry covering construction projects, engineering challenges, transit and rail operations and best practices.
Wanek-Libman has held top editorial positions at freight rail and public transportation business-to-business publications including as editor-in-chief and editorial director of Mass Transit from 2018-2024. She has been recognized for editorial excellence through her individual work, as well as for collaborative content.
She is an active member of the American Public Transportation Association's Marketing and Communications Committee and served 14 years as a Board Observer on the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) Board of Directors.
She is a graduate of Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.
