VIA Rail Canada has started phase 1 of the procurement process to select a rolling stock manufacturer, which will replace the current Quebec-Windsor Corridor operating fleet with new vehicles.

The fleet renewal programme, which has already received funding from the federal government, forms a part of VIA Rail’s transformation plan.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

In phase one of the procurement process, VIA Rail issued a request for qualifications (RFQ), which seeks applications from all interested parties.

“With a new fleet, VIA Rail will be able to offer a modern travel experience to its customers, at a greatly reduced environmental impact.”

This process will enable VIA Rail to create a list of suppliers who can participate in the following request for proposal (RFP) process. The selection will be based on the financial capacity and experience of the suppliers, and the deliverability of their proposed solutions.

An independent Fairness Monitor will supervise the RFQ process and ensure all applications are submitted by 6 June this year.

VIA Rail Canada president and CEO Yves Desjardins-Siciliano said: “With a new fleet, VIA Rail will be able to offer a modern travel experience to its customers, at a greatly reduced environmental impact.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

“Passengers will be able to travel more quickly, in safer, better-adapted vehicles to modern life: improved wi-fi; quiet and pet-friendly cars; oversized luggage compartments for skis, bikes and boards.

“It will also allow VIA Rail to remain the most accessible mode of transport in Canada for people with disabilities, by meeting or in certain areas, exceeding universal accessibility standards.”

The new fleet is expected to fulfil multiple VIA Rail-requirements, which includes providing 9,100 passenger seat arrangements from 32 bi-directional trainsets and enhanced universal accessibility features.

The trains must be more fuel-efficient that the current fleet, which is equipped with Tier 4 Diesel engines and can operate in a bi-directional mode.

 

Railway Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Railway Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact across the defence sector.

Excellence in Action
Omnevo’s digital Order-to-Seat platform has won the Innovation Award for Onboard Retail, redefining how passengers order, pay, and receive F&B at their seats. Learn how this solution is cutting waste, streamlining logistics, and enabling operators to personalize and modernize onboard retail.

Discover the Impact