With a facelift that includes all-new exterior paint, reinforced windows, energy efficient LED lights inside and outside, and a new ADA ramp, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) is excited to announce its updated Siemens SD100 TRAX light rail vehicles. The new TRAX cars are even sporting a sleeker vehicle wrap that matches the red, white, and blue colors of UTA.
While Rob Harper, an Assistant Manager for Light Rail Vehicle Maintenance, spoke glowingly of the “improved ADA ramp, softer seats, soothing LED passenger lights and a new camera system for improved safety & security,” he also pointed out that under the hood were “rebuilt traction motors, couplers, gearboxes, friction brakes, and high speed circuit breakers” that will add significantly to the comfort of the ride and the life of the vehicle.
Why did UTA go through all this trouble to renovate their cars?
Sharanjit Saini, Manager for Light Rail Vehicle Maintenance, pointed out that “to keep our vehicles safe, reliable and sustainable for their design life, it is very important that they are given the attention they need. After studying manufacturer’s recommendations, historical data, knowledge of our vehicle performance thru our experience and other agencies’ approaches, we collectively prioritized and customized the scope of work for our vehicles.”
“As costs of a new LRV have reached close to $6 million dollars, it is increasingly important that our existing LRVs are sustained and used to their full design life. This saves taxpayers millions of dollars, while still providing them the comfort that they deserve,” acknowledged Jeff LaMora, Light Rail General Manager. “Besides overhauling some of the much needed critical components mentioned above, the goal is to renovate at least 4 cars a year on our SD100 and SD160 series until we complete all 40 cars.”
The updated SD100 TRAX cars will make their debut as early as April 8th on the Blue Line. Riders will be able to enjoy a quieter and more relaxing ride to their favorite destination — a quiet trip to work, a stop at Vivint Arena to watch the Jazz in the playoffs, or family fun at a local festival — in safety and comfort.
This new car debuts today, April 8, at a station near you. For a TRAX schedule visit: http://www.rideuta.com/-/media/Files/Rider-Tools/Route-Schedules/2018/August/701schedule_Aug2018xx.ashx
