Metra has presented its new battery-powered passenger train at LaSalle Street Station in Chicago, as it prepares to introduce zero-emission trains on part of its Rock Island Line from 2028.

The four-car trainset, manufactured by Stadler, is one of eight that Metra is purchasing for use on its network. The operator also has the option to order eight additional trainsets.

Stadler and Metra also presented the battery-electric FLIRT train at APTA EXPO 2026

© Stadler

The first unit is expected to enter service in 2028, following approximately one year of testing. Metra plans to deploy the trains between LaSalle Street and Blue Island on the Beverly Branch of the Rock Island Line, a route covering 16.4 miles.

Metra Executive Director and CEO Jim Derwinski said:

These will be the first battery-powered trainsets to operate in North America, and they’re unlike anything Metra has operated before. These zero-emission trainsets will be cleaner and quieter, and we hope they will play a key role in helping Metra to operate more frequent, all-day service and improve connectivity with CTA and Pace.

The trainsets are based on Stadler’s FLIRT platform and use onboard lithium-ion batteries to provide electric traction without requiring continuous overhead electrification. The technology is intended for routes where installing conventional railway electrification may not be practical or financially viable.

The batteries can be recharged using existing 480V cabling at yards and terminals, dedicated charging infrastructure and regenerative braking, which recovers energy during deceleration.

Metra expects the trains to offer a quieter and lower-emission alternative to its diesel fleet. The operator is also assessing their potential to provide comparable or improved service at a lower cost, particularly during off-peak periods.

Each four-car trainset will provide 208 seats across single-level carriages. The design includes open gangways between cars, allowing passengers to move throughout the train.

Accessibility features include low-level boarding, lifts and two accessible toilets per trainset. Passenger amenities will include information displays, bicycle racks, luggage racks and USB charging outlets. The trains are designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Stadler North America CEO Martin Ritter said:

This project is about more than a new train. It is about demonstrating what is possible when agencies and manufacturers work together with a shared vision. It is about bringing proven technology to new markets. And it is about helping shape the future of transportation in North America.

The unveiling was also attended by representatives of the Northern Illinois Transportation Authority (NITA) and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP).

Metra’s purchase is supported by a multiyear federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) grant worth 169.3 million USD. CMAP allocated the funding through its CMAQ Project Selection Committee.

Funding from the former Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), now NITA, bond programme will contribute towards the required 20% local match. Metra is using Federal Transit Administration formula funding, RTA bonds, Rebuild Illinois bonds and state pay-as-you-go funding to cover the remaining purchase costs.

Erin Aleman, executive director of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) said:

Investments like this demonstrates how regional collaboration can deliver meaningful improvements to our transportation system. CMAP is proud to have allocated nearly $170 million in federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement funding to support Metra’ new battery-powered trainsets. Strengthening regional rail is a priority identified in our 2026 Regional Transportation Plan, and innovations like this can help deliver cleaner, more reliable service and connections for people and communities across northeastern Illinois.

The battery-powered trainsets form part of Metra’s efforts to reduce emissions while maintaining and potentially expanding service on routes where conventional electrification could be difficult to implement.

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