US: Alstom & CTDOT Unveil Models of New Commuter Cars at Union Station

Alstom and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) have unveiled a life-sized model of the state’s future commuter rail cars during an event at Union Station in New Haven.

The wooden mock-up consists of the interior of one half of a car with seats, finishes and a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

The prototype model, which is situated in the East Lot, will remain open for public tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 07:00 & 09:00 and 15:00 & 17:00 from today (Tuesday 25 November 2025) to January 06 2026.

Initially ordered in August 2023; Alstom is set to provide 60 single-level passenger coaches to CTDOT that will expand the state’s fleet and replace older vehicles still in use on the Hartford Line, which runs between New Haven and Springfield, MA.

Scott Sherin, Chief U.S. Commercial Officer for Alstom, said:

We are proud to share the work of our expert engineers and designers and give Connecticut rail riders a glimpse of their future.

These new passenger coaches will provide many years of fast and reliable service, reduce traffic congestion along highways, and help the state achieve its 2030 emissions targets.

Each new coach will feature two-by-two seating, laptop tables, extra-wide windows, power outlets and USB charging facilities, as well as overhead luggage racks and areas for wheelchairs, strollers and bikes.

The first cars are expected to be delivered in late 2026 and will be decked in the orange, white and black design of CTrail.