Hyundai Rotem HR5000
| Industry | Rail transport manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1999 |
| Headquarters | Seoul , South Korea |
The HR5000 represents an electric multiple unit designed for rapid transit, procured from Hyundai Rotem specifically for the Los Angeles Metro Rail's B and D routes.
Following the decision by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) to forgo additional purchases of CRRC HR4000 trains, a new bidding process was launched to acquire updated subway vehicles. In January 2024, Hyundai Rotem secured an order for 182 cars, with provisions allowing for 50 more units. These trains are planned to commence operation ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, with full fleet integration expected by 2030.
History
As of , Metro's subway fleet consists of older Breda A650 models produced between 1988 and 1997, complemented by newer CRRC HR4000 trains introduced in late 2024. The forthcoming HR5000 units are intended to replace all Breda A650 cars, facilitate increased service frequency featuring four-minute intervals, and support the three-phase expansion of the D Line.
In 2017, Metro entered into a contract with CRRC for 64 trains and options for an additional 218 cars; however, deliveries were postponed until late 2024 due to supply chain interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and adherence requirements related to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Moreover, the 2019 Transit Infrastructure Vehicle Security Act limited federal funding eligibility for CRRC vehicles. Consequently, Metro chose not to exercise contract options for CRRC HR4000 trains in 2022.
A fresh procurement initiative began in December 2022, inviting bids from three manufacturers—Hitachi Rail, Hyundai Rotem, and Stadler Rail—each possessing manufacturing facilities within the United States. By February 2024, Metro awarded a $663.7 million contract to Hyundai Rotem for 182 cars, with an option to purchase up to 50 additional units. Although Hyundai Rotem's proposal was priced higher than Stadler's, considerations beyond cost contributed to the contract award decision.
The HR5000 vehicles will be configured as two-car sets accommodating up to 245 passengers per set and will support multiple-unit operation allowing up to three trains to be coupled simultaneously. Completion of deliveries is scheduled by 2030 to ensure availability in time for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic events.