In a major $210 million contract, according to railway supply, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) has tapped South Korean company Woojin Industrial Systems to comprehensively modernize 74 subway cars dating back to 1999. The extensive overhaul aims to enhance reliability and passenger comfort on LA’s rail system in preparation for the 2028 Summer Olympics in the city. In this article we talk about Woojin Industrial Systems to Modernize LA Metro Trains.
Modernization Scope: Upgrading Key Components and Amenities
Over the next 4 years and 8 months, Woojin will undertake a sweeping retrofit of the aging metro rail cars originally manufactured by Italian company AnsaldoBreda. The modernization scope includes:
- Installing new traction control and monitoring systems
- Upgrading non-traction power systems
- Adding informational displays and improving air conditioning
- Replacing other components to extend the vehicles’ service life
By rebuilding critical electrical, mechanical, and climate control systems, Metro aims to minimize breakdowns and service disruptions. Enhancing onboard amenities like digital displays and cooling will also elevate the passenger experience.
Rigorous Bidding Process and “Buy American” Requirements
Metro’s search for a qualified contractor was a thorough, multi-year process evaluating both technical capabilities and “Buy American” compliance. After vetting Woojin’s proposal and facilities, the Korean company was selected as the winning bidder in early 2024.
To meet Buy American rules mandating domestic assembly for federally-funded transit projects, Woojin will perform the metro car overhauls at its Santa Fe Springs manufacturing plant in Los Angeles County. The company is also planning to construct an additional facility to accommodate the large-scale modernization work.
Woojin’s U.S. Footprint Key to Securing LA Contract
While headquartered in South Korea, Woojin already had an established American presence that was critical in being awarded Metro’s major contract. The company opened its California factory in 2011 specifically to penetrate the lucrative U.S. rail transit market and meet stringent local procurement requirements.
“Having an existing U.S. production base gave us a clear advantage in the bidding process,” said Jason Lee, President of Woojin America. “LA Metro knew we could get the job done here, delivering quality engineering while complying with all Buy American standards.”
Revamping LA’s Rail Transit for the 2028 Olympics
As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Games, modernizing the city’s aging public transportation infrastructure has become a top priority. By rebuilding a significant portion of its rail fleet, LA Metro aims to ensure reliable, comfortable service for both residents and the millions of visitors expected to arrive for the Olympics.
“These upgraded rail cars will provide the people of LA a modernized system they can be proud of as we put the city’s best face forward for the international community in 2028,” said LA Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins.
The Woojin contract further exemplifies the public-private collaboration and investment needed to get LA’s transit system in top shape for the upcoming world-class event. I sincerely hope you find this “Woojin Industrial Systems to Modernize LA Metro Trains-Find Out Details” article helpful.
Ruby Arora is the lead writer at LosAngelesDailyNews.net, where she brings her extensive expertise in journalism and communications to cover Los Angeles’ vibrant culture and breaking news. Ruby holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and has a track record of delivering insightful and accurate stories. Connect with her on Instagram and YouTube for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.
