MBTA taps STV to lead procurement of first battery-electric locomotives

The new locomotives will replace the MBTA’s legacy diesel locomotives, which have been in service for more than 35 years, with both the latest low-emissions diesel technology and zero-emissions propulsion systems, STV officials said in a press release. The replacement of old rolling stock is part of MBTA’s regional rail modernization plan. Under the seven-year contract, STV will provide end-to-end support from bid review and selection through procurement, production and testing. STV, a New York City-based infrastructure-focused professional services firm, has supported Tier 4 passenger locomotive procurements in North America for more than 15 years and is the only firm currently managing a battery-electric locomotive procurement, company officials said. “By procuring a mixed fleet of the cleanest diesel technology available and cutting-edge battery-electric technology, the lessons we apply in Boston will help shape the future of commuter rail nationwide,” said Derek Stegman, a project manager at STV.