January 23, 2025 (BOSTON) – Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the operating and maintenance partner for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail system, has released a request for proposals to procure new battery-electric multiple-unit train sets. Keolis is seeking to obtain proposals from qualified parties for the design, manufacture, testing, and commissioning of the rolling stock which will be introduced onto the MBTA’s Fairmount Commuter Rail Line in Boston.

The new rolling stock is required to be highly reliable, modern multiple unit type configuration capable of operating under the overhead catenary system and via the use of on-board traction batteries. Keolis is seeking to procure seven trains, with the option to add additional trains.

Qualified Transit Vehicle Manufacturers (TVMs) interested in submitting a proposal in response must email rsprocurement@keoliscs.com to request copies of the RFP and associated documents.

In parallel with the rolling stock procurement process, Keolis is also seeking information and proposals from financiers for the purchase and lease of the new rolling stock. Interested parties looking to participate in this finance procurement process must also reach out to rsprocurement@keoliscs.com.

Keolis Commuter Services has operated and maintained the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s commuter rail system, the sixth largest commuter rail operation in North America, for over ten years. KCS is a subsidiary of Keolis North America (KNA), both headquartered in Boston, and employs approximately 2,500 people throughout the region. KCS and KNA are part of Keolis Group, an innovative global leader in transit services with more than a century of passenger transportation experience and operations in 13 countries.  

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