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Press Release
November 25, 2024
Hitachi Rail invests $100 million in next-generation rail signalling technology
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SelTracTM, the Ontario-invented rail signalling system, will integrate AI and next-generation technologies leveraging Ontario’s tech talent and engineering expertise
TORONTO, Ontario, November 25, 2024 – Invest Ontario is proud to support Hitachi Rail’s more than $100 million investment to upgrade its world-leading communication-based train control (CBTC) signalling technology.
This investment includes the expansion of Hitachi Rail’s workforce in Toronto, Ontario, creating 100 new jobs and retaining 1,000 highly skilled positions in its York Mills office, including R&D and engineering roles.
Hitachi Rail aims to develop a new generation of its CBTC technology, SelTracTM (G9), which will integrate artificial intelligence (AI), 5G communications, edge and cloud computing. The next-generation system will offer transit operators worldwide lower costs, minimized carbon footprint, and enhanced passenger experience.
The over $100 million investment in the next generation of our world-leading SelTracTM technology is hugely exciting – and we are grateful to the Government of Ontario and Invest Ontario for their support. By integrating AI, 5G, edge and cloud computing, our system will allow urban rail transportation operators around the globe to improve passenger journeys and operate more efficiently. This Ontario-invented technology is a Canadian success story that is creating jobs and boosting economic growth.
Ziad Rizk
Managing Director, Urban Rail Signalling, Hitachi Rail
CBTC is a modern urban signalling system that uses wireless communication between trains and infrastructure to operate urban transit and subway systems more efficiently and safely than conventional signalling. SelTracTM, invented in Ontario, is the world’s first moving block CBTC signalling system, currently operating in more than 100 lines in 40 major cities around the world including the O-Train in Ottawa.
Ontario, home to one of the largest tech clusters in North America, is renowned for its strength in AI, automation, and connectivity technologies. The province’s expertise in smart mobility, combined with Hitachi Rail’s global competence centre, makes Ontario the natural place to develop next-generation digital solutions for urban rail and metros.
As one of the largest and most sought-after tech hubs in North America, Ontario is driving the development of next-generation technologies that will strengthen economic growth across key sectors, including automation and transportation. Through Invest Ontario, we are proud to support Hitachi Rail’s expansion in Toronto and thank them for choosing our province as the ideal place for their continued growth and success.
Hon. Vic Fedeli
Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
The company’s York Mills office in Toronto serves as its engineering centre of excellence, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including labs, testing areas, and simulation environments. In addition to expanding the R&D team, Hitachi Rail is investing in specialized equipment for product development and prototyping.
This expansion adds to Hitachi Rail’s growing presence in Canada that includes around 1,200 employees across the country, who are delivering and maintaining major transit projects in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Ottawa.
Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is investing $70 billion in the largest transit expansion in North America, connecting millions more Ontarians to reliable and affordable public transit. Today's announcement means Hitachi Rail will be helping even more workers gain the critical expertise needed to deliver Ontario's generational projects.
Hon. Prabmeet Sarkaria
Minister of Transportation
Hitachi Rail’s investment is a testament to Ontario’s strengths in future technologies that are transforming industries from manufacturing to transportation. We are excited to support the company in advancing a made-in-Ontario technology that keeps cities around the world on the move.
Jennifer Block
Interim CEO of Invest Ontario
Subject to reaching a definitive agreement, the Invest Ontario Fund will support the investment with a $4.5 million grant.
For more information about Invest Ontario, please visit www.investontario.ca.
About Invest Ontario
Invest Ontario is the dedicated agency for investment attraction in the province. We serve as global businesses’ partner and one-window access to Ontario, providing expertise and tailored services throughout their investment journey. With a focus on the advanced manufacturing, life sciences and technology sectors, we are committed to securing strategic investments that create jobs, generate returns to the province and drive Ontario’s long-term economic growth and global competitiveness.
About Hitachi Rail
Hitachi Rail is committed to driving the sustainable mobility transition and has a clear focus on partnering with customers to rethink mobility. Its mission is to help every passenger, customer and community enjoy the benefits of more connected, seamless and sustainable transport.
With revenues of over €7bn and 24,000 employees across more than 50 countries, Hitachi Rail is a trusted partner to the world's best transport organisations. The company's reach is global, but the business is local - with success built on developing local talent and investing in people and communities.
Its international capabilities and expertise span every part of the urban, mainline and freight rail ecosystems – from high quality manufacturing and maintenance of rolling stock to secure digital signalling, smart operations and payment systems.
Hitachi Rail, famous for Japan's iconic high speed bullet train, draws on the digital and AI expertise of Hitachi Group companies to accelerate innovation and develop new technologies. Hitachi Group is present in 140 countries with over 270,000 employees and global revenues of €54.55bn / ¥8,564 bn.
For more information, visit hitachirail.com.
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Sunny Ng
Advisor, Communications and Marketing, Invest Ontario
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