Siemens receives $83 million light rail order from Houston METRO

Houston METRO has awarded Siemens Industry, Inc., an $83-million contract to build and deliver nineteen S70 light rail vehicles including spare parts, training and manuals. The vehicles will be manufactured from start to finish at Siemens' rail vehicle manufacturing plant in Sacramento, Calif. Houston METRO currently has 16 stations and eighteen S70 light rail vehicles in operation, with an average daily ridership of 34,600. "Siemens is proud to provide these light rail vehicles, built right here in the United States and using sustainable manufacturing practices," said Oliver Hauck, president, Mobility Division, Siemens Industry, Inc. "Light rail is a zero-emission transportation option, and it takes cars off the crowded roadways." The new rail cars will be delivered beginning in October 2012. The S70 has a maximum operational speed of 66 miles per hour. Its low floor design enables passengers to board the train at street level, providing quicker and easier access for people of all abilities.