Boston's low floor LRV-program update [light rail vehicles]

Abstract

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (USA) will soon be operating one of the largest fleets of low floor light rail vehicles (LF-LRVs) in the world. The project team has had to meet many challenges presented by the integration of the new design into one of the most severe operating environments in North America. This paper presents a brief historical review of the project, covering the decision to select low floor cars and the resulting car configuration issues. The key challenges to the program and some resulting technical features of the car are reviewed. The approach of the project team to resolving problems is discussed, with experiences of operator, consultant and carbuilder presented. In conclusion, the prototype testing program is discussed, with a review of its objectives and presentation of the results achieved to date.