VIA Rail Canada announces tender for new cross country fleet

VIA Rail Canada has launched a Request for Qualification (RFQ) to replace its Long-Distance, Regional, and Remote (LDRR) fleet with new rolling stock, both locomotives and cars.

The replacement of the pan-Canadian fleet was announced as part of the 2024 Federal Budget. It builds on the successful entry into service of VIA Rail’s new Corridor fleet.

The new pan-Canadian rolling stock should be designed to meet accessibility standards, ensuring a seamless travel experience for all passengers, VIA said.

It will feature nine different types of cars, aiming to offer enhanced comfort and modern amenities.

According to VIA Rail, the new rolling stock will aim to reduce the environmental impact of rail travel while connecting communities across Canada.

VIA Rail president and CEO Mario Péloquin said: “We are thrilled to launch the Requests for Qualification for our pan-Canadian fleet, a key step in VIA Rail’s ongoing transformation.