A proposed design of the MBTA Green Line Type 10 Supercar. Photo: Courtesy of MBTA
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Flying cars might still be a thing of the future, but taking a "supercar" to work on the Green Line could soon be the new normal.
Green Line Type 10 "Supercar" trolleys are in the procurement phase and are scheduled to begin the design phase in the fall, according to a statement from the MBTA. The "supercars" will be in the design phase for a few years before pilot vehicles can be introduced to the MBTA system in 2026.
The new transit system will replace the older Green Line Type 7 and 8 trains. Riders will experience benefits with the new system including increased passenger capacity and wider doors to maximize boarding efficiency.
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“This is an incredible moment that marks an inflection point for the MBTA’s Green Line riders as we continue to work to transform the entire line,” Steve Poftak, MBTA General Manager said in a statement. “Not only will the Type 10 "Supercars" provide more capacity and a roomier ride for what is the nation’s busiest light rail line, but they also include the latest safety technology, updated accessibility improvements, and other upgrades that improve the rider experience. We look forward to beginning the supercar design phase this fall, and receiving the first pilot vehicles in spring 2026.”
A proposed example of the MBTA Green Line Type 10 Supercar operator’s cab.Photo: Courtesy of MBTA
The new Type 10 "Supercars" are a part of the Green Line Transformation Program to upgrade service and increase reliability for riders and communities served by the Green Line. The program will include major upgrades to tracks, signals, stations, facilities, and vehicles.
“The Type 10 "Supercars" bring us closer to increasing safety, accessibility, and capacity for the Green Line,” Angel Peña, MBTA Chief of Capital Transformation said in a statement. “We strive to align our projects with our vision for the future of the Green Line as well as several levels of transformation, including our goal of enhancing accessibility through long-term investments. Securing this contract for the supercars advances our commitment to improving the Green Line and providing our riders with the best quality of service possible.”
The announcement came after the MBTA’s Board of Directors awarded a contract of more than $810 million to CAF USA Inc. to deliver over 100 "supercar" trolleys. The MBTA said the new transit cars will increase safety, accessibility, capacity, and maintainability for the MBTA and benefit its riders. The board approved the contract after a presentation by the MBTA’s Capital Transformation and Vehicle Engineering teams.
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