Alstom double-deck railcars enter service on Seattle's Sounder trains

Alstom and Sound Transit entered service with 11 new double-deck railcars for Seattle’s Sounder commuter system. The cars, built at Alstom’s Plattsburgh, New York plant, include 3 passenger lead cars and 8 intermediate cars and will enter service during this month. Sound Transit says the upgrades will increase capacity for the Sounder system ahead of major sporting events in Seattle scheduled for summer. Passenger improvements cited by the operator include USB ports and power outlets at every seat, more theater-style seating, additional legroom in certain seats, and a redesigned bike rack. For safety, the cars are equipped with Crash Energy Management (CEM) technology with energy-absorbing zones at each end and energy-absorbing couplers between vehicles, while lead cars feature a full-width windshield to improve driver visibility. Sound Transit CEO Dow Constantine and Alstom Americas president Michael Keroullé highlighted safety, comfort, and readiness for peak demand.