Chicago Metra explores battery-electric trains for commuter rail

Commuter rail systems are testing battery-powered trains to reduce diesel emissions while increasing service frequency on routes like Chicago's Metra network.

First covered Oct 14, 2026 · 7:17 AM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

Coverage

27d Utility Dive Battery-powered trains coming to Chicago: a first look — Commuter rail systems like Chicago's Metra are exploring battery-electric trains to increase service while reducing diesel exhaust pollution and noise.

More coverage from around the web

interestingengineering.com Chicago Metra’s new battery-electric train could change commuter rail

chicago.suntimes.com Public gets first peek at Metra's future battery-powered trains, a North American first - Chicago Sun-Times

electrek.co Chicago Metra calls its new battery-electric locomotive a first of its kind

blockclubchicago.org Chicago's 1st Battery-Powered Commuter Train Coming To Metra's Rock Island Beverly Line

trains.com First Metra battery-electric trainset to make debut in October - Trains

Appeared in: 2026-10-15 (#13)

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