Hitachi Rail and Invest Ontario have announced a partnership to develop a new generation of Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signal technology in the Toronto area. This innovative system, known as SelTrac (G9), will incorporate artificial intelligence, 5G communications, and edge and cloud computing. The investment of over Ca$100 million will also result in the creation of 100 new jobs and the retention of 1,000 positions at Hitachi’s York Mills office.
CBTC technology utilizes wireless communications to operate transit and subway systems more efficiently and safely than traditional signaling methods. The SelTrac system, which is already in use on over 100 lines in 40 cities worldwide, is the first moving-block CBTC system.
Ziad Rizk, Hitachi Rail’s managing director of urban rail signaling, emphasized that the new system will enhance passenger journeys and improve operational efficiency for urban rail transportation operators globally. This Ontario-developed technology is seen as a Canadian success story that is not only creating jobs but also contributing to economic growth.
The Ontario government, through Invest Ontario, is providing Ca$4.5 million in support for this project. Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade, Vic Fedeli, expressed gratitude to Hitachi Rail for choosing the province as the location for their expansion and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic development in the region.
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