Metra Displays Battery-Powered Trains for Chicago Line
The agency plans to launch eight new trainsets on the Beverly Branch by 2028, promising a quieter commute for riders.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Metra recently showcased its new battery-powered train at Chicago’s LaSalle Street Station, signaling a shift toward cleaner rail transit. The agency has ordered eight of these trainsets, which are scheduled to begin service on the Beverly Branch of the Rock Island Line in 2028.
Why it matters
By eliminating the need for diesel fuel, these new trains aim to significantly reduce noise and tailpipe pollution in neighborhoods along the Beverly Branch. This transition represents a major step for the agency in modernizing regional rail logistics for daily commuters.
Each trainset features a capacity for 200 passengers and relies on a central car housing 26 lithium titanate batteries with 1 megawatt-hour of capacity. The units provide an operational range of 50 to 66 miles.
The players
Metra
The Chicago-area commuter rail agency that manages daily transit for thousands of residents.
The details
The train’s battery hardware is contained within a dedicated central car that hosts the primary electrical equipment. Maintenance staff can access these components from both the interior of the central car and from the exterior of the train for simplified upkeep. Passengers will have access to integrated charging ports beneath every seat once the fleet enters service.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Public display at LaSalle Street Station.
October 15, 2026: Second day of the public display event.
2028: Targeted full service launch on the Beverly Branch.
The Home Front
The adoption of lithium titanate battery systems marks a departure from traditional diesel locomotive power, mirroring a broader industry trend toward electrification. This move suggests that regional transit authorities are prioritizing lower-emission hardware to mitigate the environmental impact on adjacent residential areas.
Commuters living along the Rock Island Line should anticipate cleaner air and reduced noise levels once the 2028 service launch begins. If you are a daily rider, look for the rollout of these trainsets to enhance your comfort with onboard charging options.
The takeaway
The move to electric trainsets signifies a long-term shift toward quieter, emission-free commutes for Chicago-area residents. Residents should monitor future project milestones as the agency prepares for the 2028 operational start date.
Further reading
For more on how electrification is reshaping local transport, visit the Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Cool Down.
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Do you trust that battery-powered trains will be as reliable as existing diesel commuter trains?
