- Metra and Caltrans trainsets to use ABB's innovative traction technology
- Key components to be assembled at ABB's Traction factory in Mechanicsville, Virginia
- Partnership highlights commitment to local-for-local manufacturing and environmental stewardship
ABB has announced its collaboration with Stadler US to advance sustainable rail transport in the United States (US). The collaboration will see ABB supply its traction converters and Pro Series Traction Batteries for Metra’s and Caltrans’ fleets of new trainsets in Illinois and California respectively, marking a significant step towards greener rail transport in the US.
Metra, which will become one of the first rail operators in the US to operate full battery-powered trainsets, placed an order for eight two-car trainsets in June 2024. Each trainset will run throughout Chicago and will be equipped with Pro 8C batteries and CC750 DC traction converters. ABB’s traction converters are designed for high efficiency and reliability, working to optimize the performance of the trainsets, while the battery system will further enable Metra to reduce their CO2 emissions.
Caltrans has signed a historic contract with Stadler US for hydrogen passenger trains in North America. The fleet will consist of 10 trainsets, and ABB will supply Pro 8C traction batteries, CC750 DC traction converters, and CC400 DC traction converters for each. The traction converter for fuel cell integration is essential in hydrogen-powered trains, enabling efficient propulsion that reduces power usage and emissions.
Metra will become one of the first rail operators in the US to operate full battery-powered trainsets 
Caltrans has signed a historic contract with Stadler US for hydrogen passenger trains in North America
Final assembly and testing of the components for these trainsets will be conducted at ABB’s Traction factory in Mechanicsville, Virginia, which employs nearly 100 skilled production workers.
Since 2010, ABB has invested more than $14 billion in US plant expansions, operational improvements, state-of-the-art equipment, products, and people.
"Our collaboration with Stadler is a testament to our commitment to sustainable transportation solutions," said Edgar Keller, President, ABB Traction division. "By leveraging our advanced technology and local manufacturing capabilities, we are helping drive the transition to cleaner rail transport."
"By integrating ABB's traction batteries and converters into our trainsets, we are not only enhancing the efficiency and reliability of our fleets but also contributing to a state-of-the-art transit future" said Martin Ritter, CEO Division North America, Stadler. He added "This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that will benefit communities across the country.
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com
ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive and sustainable future. We innovate and push the boundaries of technology to contribute to energy efficient, decarbonizing and circular solutions for customers, industries and societies. With our digitally enabled drives, motors and services we support our customers and partners to achieve better performance, safety and reliability. To help the world’s industries outrun – leaner and cleaner, we deliver motor-driven solutions for a wide range of applications in all industrial segments. Building on over 140 years of domain expertise in electric powertrains, our more than 23,000 employees across 100 countries learn and improve every day. go.abb/motion
About Stadler
Stadler has been building trains for over 80 years. The provider of mobility solutions in rail vehicle construction, service and signaling has its headquarters in Bussnang in eastern Switzerland. It has a workforce of around 14,500 based in various production and engineering locations as well as more than 80 service locations. The company is conscious of its social responsibility for sustainable mobility and therefore stands for innovative, sustainable and durable quality products. The product range in the field of mainline railways and city transport includes highspeed trains, intercity trains, regional and suburban trains, metros, tramways and trams. Stadler also manufactures main-line locomotives, shunting locomotives and passenger carriages. It is the world’s leading manufacturer in the rack-and-pinion rail vehicle industry.
