Boston’s MBTA reached a major milestone in transforming Regional Rail service with the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for new battery electric and low-emissions locomotives. The procurement advances the agency's broader efforts to modernize its rail fleet and position Regional Rail for long-term improvement.

The RFP, issued in partnership with the Maryland Transit Administration, was released on February 25, with an awarded contract planned for summer 2026.  

“A modernized and reliable regional rail system has been talked about for a long time, and now we are taking action with this significant first step of procuring battery-electric locomotives,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA GM Phillip Eng. “Critical to not only continuing to deliver the levels of service needed today, but this procurement also helps us build a system that can meet the needs of future generations.”

“This joint procurement represents regional partnership in action,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “By working together, we are strengthening our individual transit systems while reinforcing the larger, interconnected transportation network along the Mid Atlantic and Northeast."

Adding New Locomotives

For riders and communities, the new locomotives will bring clear, measurable improvements to Regional Rail service. Battery-electric locomotives produce zero tailpipe emissions and are significantly quieter than traditional diesel trains, improving air quality and reducing noise along rail corridors.

By replacing aging equipment prone to mechanical failures, the new trains will also help reduce delays and improve day-to-day reliability. Battery-electric locomotives accelerate faster than diesel trains, supporting smoother trips, more consistent schedules, and the potential for more frequent service on key lines.

The MBTA is leading a joint procurement of battery-electric locomotives and Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives to ensure reliable service for current and future passengers.

The T will procure 10 battery-electric locomotives for initial deployment on the Providence Line, which has existing electric power infrastructure, and 10 Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives for lines without electric infrastructure. 

Both locomotive types will significantly reduce emissions, noise, and vibrations for passengers and abutters. This procurement includes options for up to 50 additional locomotives to support future expansion of Regional Rail modernization, as funding and infrastructure allow.

Building on Recent Investments 

The procurement builds on recent and ongoing investments to modernize Regional Rail service, including:

• Fairmount Line Battery-Electric Service: Battery-electric trains and related facilities and power infrastructure will support bidirectional service every 20 minutes on the Fairmount Line. 
• Bi-level Coach Procurement: The MBTA is procuring 80 new bi-level coaches to replace the single-level cars currently in service. This $395 million investment will increase capacity, improve rider comfort, and support a more reliable fleet.