Bombardier broadens research program
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-ChiefBombardier Transportation announced today that it is investing $17 million over the next 18 months in creating a Product Design and Development Center for North America in Saint-Bruno, Quebec, and building a new test track at its manufacturing plant in La Pocatiere, Quebec.
“Facing the challenge of an increasingly competitive market, we are proud to reinforce our presence in Quebec by making major investments to enhance our competitive edge and maintain our leadership,” said Raymond Bachant, President, Bombardier Transportation North America. “The Design Center is a unifying project that will encourage greater involvement by our customers, suppliers, and partners in the research and development of pioneering technologies that could be included in our manufacturing processes.”
Quebec Minister of Transport Sam Hamad, who was present for the announcement, commented: “Already one of our economy’s foremost manufacturers and a leader in the rail industry, Bombardier Transportation adds another string to its bow with this investment. I’m pleased to see Bombardier Transportation position itself at the forefront of the industry’s best worldwide practices and take action to reinforce its competitiveness.”
The new center will consolidate product development for future projects carried out across North America. The new test track will allow engineers to perform qualification tests on the metro cars Bombardier is building for Societe de transport de Montréal. Bombardier said the track will be multifunctional, so that tests can be carried out on all electric multiple-units powered by a third rail, including rolling stock on rubber tires.
