Kawasaki Rail Car Inc, a US subsidiary of Japan-based Kawasaki Railcar Manufacturing Co Ltd (a wholly owned subsidiary of Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd), recently celebrated the manufacture of its 5,000th railcar for the US market. Kawasaki has delivered over $12 billion in railcars since its entry into the market in 1979, and its facility in Yonkers has awarded an estimated 30% of the contracts to companies located in New York State.
Kawasaki has delivered 3,783 railcars, equivalent to 76% of its total 5,000 railcars, to authorities in the New York area. These included, among others, 2,456 cars for New York City Transit, 474 cars for Metro-North Railroad, and 336 cars for Long-Island Railroad.
Mikio Mori, Consul General of Japan in New York, said “Established in Japan over a century ago, Kawasaki has left indelible tracks across the landscape of global railway history. By selecting Yonkers four decades ago for its rail car manufacturing facility, Kawasaki demonstrated a commitment to the success and prosperity of New York State.”
Andrea Stewart-Cousins, New York State majority leader, added: “Kawasaki has been an integral part of New York’s economy for decades, driving innovation and providing significant opportunities throughout the State. The company’s deep investment back into our economy, by contracting with local businesses, has helped strengthen local industries and New York’s economy.
“Today, as we celebrate the remarkable milestone of 5,000 railcars, we also recognise the skilled workers whose expertise has been crucial to this success. Kawasaki continues to set a high standard in manufacturing and innovation, and I look forward to their continued partnership in advancing New York’s economic future.”