On Tuesday, electric trains began running on Connecticut’s Shore Line East (SLE).
The M8 Electric Multiple Units (EMU) trains emit no carbon emissions. They include amenities for riders such as brighter interior spaces, electrical outlets at each seat, higher back seats, improved luggage racks, and updated restrooms.
M8 EMU trains have been in service on the New Haven Line for more than a decade and have performed very well.
A ceremony was held Monday at Union Station to announce the launch of the electric trains. Gov. Ned Lamont attended the event with U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT); U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT); Peter Lapré, Federal Railroad Administration railroad safety specialist; Catherine Rinaldi, MTA Metro-North president/Long Island Rail Road interim president; Tom Moritz, Amtrak assistant vice president; Joe Giulietti, Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner; local elected officials and community partners.
“Electric trains on Shore Line East have been talked about for many years, and there were a lot of hurdles to overcome,” Giulietti said. “Beyond the direct environmental benefit, these trains are quieter inside and out, offer a more comfortable ride, and have improved amenities I know riders will enjoy. I hope the public will come out and try the Shore Line East service.”