Gov. Mikie Sherrill joined NJ Transit officials and other leaders April 13 in Kearny to mark a major milestone in the agency’s fleet overhaul. The event welcomed the arrival of the first of 374 next-generation Multilevel III rail cars.

The new car is now undergoing testing. Up to 40 additional cars are also expected to enter service later this year. The updates come as part of a broader, more than $3 billion effort by NJ Transit. The plan aims to fully modernize its rail and bus fleets by 2031.

The unveiling also featured a new 40-foot bus and Access Link paratransit vehicle, as well as a mobile police command center.

Alstom manufactured the new Multilevel III cars. They will replace decades-old equipment and deliver a significant leap in performance.

NJ Transit says the cars are roughly 10 times more reliable. The agency noted the updated fleet is capable of traveling about 400,000 miles between mechanical failures. They also offer higher top speeds, increased seating capacity and enhanced accessibility. Modern amenities include USB charging and onboard information screens.

‘A better ride’

“New Jersey commuters deserve a transit system that is reliable and state-of-the-art,” Sherrill said. “That’s why my budget makes a historic investment to modernize one of the oldest rail fleets in the nation—starting with 40 new rail cars and 250 new buses this year. By upgrading its fleet of vehicles, NJ Transit is providing greater comfort, efficiency, and dependability to riders statewide.

“Combined with historic projects like the Portal North Bridge and Gateway Tunnel, we’re making sure commuters have a better ride now and in the future.”

“The introduction of new rail cars, buses and light rail vehicles is central to strengthening the reliability our customers depend on every day,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “These investments are designed to deliver more consistent service while improving comfort, convenience, and accessibility across our system.”

Alstom manufactures the rail cars in Plattsburgh, N.Y.

“Gov. Mikie Sherrill and NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri have made clear that the state’s residents deserve a strong, reliable rail system,” said Michael Keroullé, president and CEO, Alstom Americas. “Alstom is proud to be part of the progress that their team is making. The American-made Multilevel III fleet helps New Jersey deliver on their commitment, offering reliable vehicles with modern amenities, greater capacity, and a more comfortable ride for passengers.”