The MBTA announced a major milestone in transforming Regional Rail service with the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for new battery electric and low-emissions locomotives. The procurement advances the agency’s broader efforts to modernize its rail fleet and position Regional Rail for long-term improvement. The RFP, issued in partnership with the Maryland Transit Administration, was released February 25, 2026, with an awarded contract planned for summer 2026.

The MBTA is leading a joint procurement of battery-electric locomotives and Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives to ensure reliable service for current and future passengers. The T will procure 10 battery-electric locomotives for initial deployment on the Providence Line, which has existing electric power infrastructure, and 10 Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives for lines without electric infrastructure.

Both locomotive types will significantly reduce emissions, noise and vibrations for passengers and abutters. This procurement includes options for up to 50 additional locomotives to support future expansion of Regional Rail modernization, as funding and infrastructure allow.

The procurement builds on recent and ongoing investments to modernize Regional Rail service, including:

• Fairmount Line Battery-Electric Service: Battery electric trains and related facilities and power infrastructure will support bidirectional service every 20 minutes on the Fairmount Line.
• Bi-level Coach Procurement: The MBTA is procuring 80 new bi-level coaches to replace the single level cars currently in service. This $395 million investment will increase capacity, improve rider comfort, and support a more reliable fleet.