Alstom, a French multinational company specializing in transport infrastructure, has signed a major contract worth 4.7 billion Canadian dollars (approximately 3 billion euros) to replace 313 aging passenger cars for Via Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service. The deal includes the design, production, and delivery of new Adessia passenger cars, as well as a 15-year agreement for technical support and spare parts. These new cars will replace some of the oldest in service, which have been operating for 77 years, ensuring a safer and more modern rail experience for passengers. The new fleet will serve eight major rail corridors across Canada, connecting nearly 400 communities. These routes span from major cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver to smaller towns such as Churchill, Prince Rupert, and Sudbury, as well as several First Nations communities. The Adessia cars are designed to operate on both electrified and non-electrified tracks at speeds ranging from 120 to 200 kilometers per hour. They are also built to endure Canada’s extreme weather, from harsh winters to hot summers, ensuring reliable service year-round. The new fleet will include nine different configurations to meet diverse travel needs. These include standard coach cars, sleeper cars for overnight travel, accessible cars for people with reduced mobility, dome cars for scenic views, dining cars, and baggage cars. The design and manufacturing of these cars will take place in Canada, supporting local industry and creating new opportunities. The project is expected to create or maintain 670 direct jobs at Alstom’s Canadian facilities and over 100 indirect jobs in the supply chain and surrounding communities. Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas, called the project a significant milestone for the company, expressing pride in being entrusted with the work by Via Rail and the Canadian government. Steven MacKinnon, Canada’s Minister of Transport, emphasized the importance of a modern, reliable rail network that will serve Canadians for generations to come, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving transportation infrastructure across the country.