VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail) has officially initiated the Requests for Qualification (RFQ) process for the procurement of locomotives and railcars intended to replace its Long-Distance, Regional, and Remote (LDRR) fleet.
This RFQ process represents the initial stage of a significant project aimed at securing a supplier for a new fleet that promises to provide a modern, comfortable, accessible, and sustainable travel experience, thereby enhancing connectivity across Canada.
Consequently, within the next ten years, all VIA Rail trains nationwide will undergo replacement.
The renewal of the pan-Canadian fleet represents a pivotal moment in VIA Rail’s evolution. This initiative, unveiled in the 2024 Federal Budget, stands as the most substantial investment in the ongoing transformation of VIA Rail and the advancement of passenger rail services throughout Canada.
Following the successful launch of VIA Rail’s new Corridor fleet, this initiative signifies a historic milestone, as it will be the first instance in the Corporation’s history where a new fleet is introduced nationwide, thereby providing an exceptional standard of service and connectivity for both Canadians and visitors.
