Siemens opens bullet train factory in New York for 2028 line

Siemens is establishing a $60 million factory in central New York, marking the first facility in the U.S. dedicated to manufacturing bullet trains. This new plant will produce trains for Brightline West's high-speed rail line, which is set to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles, with an expected opening in 2028. The factory will complement Siemens' existing operations in Sacramento, California, where they currently produce diesel trains for various rail services. The new facility will focus on creating true high-speed trains, differing from the push-pull models made in Sacramento. Notably, the trains produced will be wide-body, allowing for better accessibility, including wheelchair access. Siemens is also set to provide the electric power system for the Brightline West project, enhancing the overall infrastructure of the high-speed rail line. This initiative aligns with the Biden Administration's efforts to promote high-speed rail in the U.S., a country that has lagged behind other advanced nations in this area. Siemens is competing with Alstom, another European manufacturer, for contracts to supply bullet trains to California's High-Speed Rail Authority, which aims to launch its first segment in the early 2030s. With the addition of this factory, Siemens will have a more extensive manufacturing capability, positioning itself to meet the growing demand for high-speed rail solutions in the U.S. The establishment of this facility is a significant step towards modernizing the American rail system and improving transportation options across the country.