Alstom has officially commissioned 18 new Citadis light-rail vehicles (LRVs) for Toronto’s Finch West Light Rapid Transit (LRT) line, marking a significant step in expanding sustainable transit across the city. Developed in partnership with Metrolinx, the new line promises faster, more reliable journeys for Toronto’s growing communities while showcasing Canadian engineering and expertise.

The 10.3-kilometre Finch West LRT features 16 stops and two stations—Finch West in the east and Humber College in the west—and runs on a dedicated right of way separated from traffic. A pedestrian connection links the line to the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) Line 1 at Finch West subway station, improving network integration and reducing travel times. The project is part of the Ontario government’s multibillion-dollar investment in modernising public transit across the province.

Built at Alstom’s Brampton facility and tested at its Kingston site, each 48-metre Citadis vehicle can carry up to 300 passengers and is fully accessible for people with mobility needs and strollers. The LRVs are designed to operate in harsh Canadian winters down to -38°C, featuring reinforced insulation, powerful HVAC systems, and snow and ice management solutions to maintain comfort and performance year-round.

The Finch West contract, which ran from 2020 to 2024, supported more than 180 jobs at peak production and expanded Ontario’s rail manufacturing workforce. Alstom will also be responsible for maintaining the vehicles, tracks, and catenary systems for the next 30 years, ensuring long-term operational reliability. Across Canada, Alstom employs over 5,000 people and contributes to major urban mobility projects in cities including Toronto, Kitchener, Waterloo, Ottawa, Edmonton, Montreal, Vancouver, and soon Quebec City.

Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas, said:

“Alstom is proud to deliver rail-mobility solutions that are engineered and manufactured in Ontario. We thank our clients, Metrolinx and the TTC, for their trust and long-term partnership. We are delighted to contribute to the development of Toronto’s booming public transit system with best-in-class mobility technology, made by Canadians, for Canadians.”

Image: Alstom