First introduced in 1978, the BiLevel car is the most popular double-deck commuter railcar in North America and is in operation at 14 transportation authorities across Canada and the U.S. Bombardier

Bombardier Transportation signed contracts for 28 BiLevel commuter railcars with two transportation authorities in a procurement led by the Central Puget Sound Regional Transit Authority (Sound Transit) in Seattle.

The two contracts represent a combination of eight cab cars and 20 coaches and include options for 33 additional railcars. The cars will be built at Bombardier’s manufacturing site in Thunder Bay, Canada and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2021.

First introduced in 1978, the BiLevel car is the most popular double-deck commuter railcar in North America and is in operation at 14 transportation authorities across Canada and the U.S. One of the keys to the BiLevel car’s success has been its ability to adapt to meet changing needs and requirements. The latest steps in that evolution include BiLevel cars equipped with a Crash Energy Management system, full width cab, upgrades to door and air conditioning systems, and enhancements to passenger amenities. A more aerodynamic cab car and new lighting will reduce fuel consumption and increase energy efficiency.