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.

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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.

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“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.