Saft begins CTA 7000 series battery system deliveries

Written by Andrew Corselli
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A Saft battery

Saft Batteries has begun battery system deliveries to CRRC Sifang America’s manufacturing facility for the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) 7000 series transit railcars.

Part of Saft’s biggest North American contract to date, the batteries will provide backup power to vital systems—heating, lighting, door control, security cameras, etc.—on board the next generation of CTA railcars.

The contract, signed in April 2018 following a competitive bid process, includes an initial order of battery box assemblies for 400 cars with options for an additional 446 assemblies.

“We’re thrilled to commence delivery for this important and ambitious project from our Valdosta plant in Georgia,” said Milan Sima, Railway General Manager, Saft. “CRRC is a leader in passenger railcar manufacturing, and we have designed a 21st century battery system for a 21st century transit system. I’m proud of the work our team has completed thus far and look forward to our continued partnership with CRRC.”

“CRRC Sifang America Inc. has high performance, reliability, safety and pricing standards for the specialized components it is procuring for the CTA 7000 series passenger railcar project,” said Marina Popovic, HR Director and Chief Legal Counsel. “Meeting those standards is critical for CRRC to maintain its reputation as the leading passenger railcar manufacturer in the world, to continue building state-of-the-art innovative and reliable trains, and to deliver the highest quality products to its customers. Saft meets CRRC’s high expectations and strict requirements. Moreover, CRRC is committed to doing business with U.S. suppliers such as Saft, which has successfully manufactured batteries for various railcar projects.”

Artist rendering of a CRRC-built CTA 7000 series car on the Loop.

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