Last of Eight New Streetcars Arrives in Kansas City

KC Streetcar, Kansas City, MO, has received the last of eight new streetcars from manufacturer CAF USA, Inc. The vehicle will support operation of the Main Street and Riverfront Extensions, ultimately connecting the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) to Berkley Riverfront.

The KC Streetcar is picking up vehicle numbering where it left off with its 801-806 series. The new vehicles are numbered 807-814. CAF, along with Silk Road Transport, delivered KC Streetcar vehicle #814 more than 1,000 miles from Elmira, NY, to Kansas City, MO. It was transported to the Kite Singleton vehicle maintenance facility, where it will undergo shop testing for several weeks before it begins testing on tracks.

The addition of eight new streetcars is a pivotal step in supporting the expansion of the KC Streetcar system, particularly as it grows beyond its original downtown route to include the Main Street and Riverfront Extensions. With both extensions, the system will connect more neighborhoods, businesses, and cultural destinations, making efficient, sustainable public transit accessible to more Kansas Citians.

“KC Streetcar #814 is not just a new vehicle but a testament to the streetcar system’s growth and a significant step forward for public transportation in Kansas City,” said Tom Gerend, executive director of the KC Streetcar Authority. “It represents a moment of transition as Kansas City prepares to embrace an expanded era of modern, accessible, efficient, and fare-free public transit.”

In addition to the arrival of #814, KC Streetcar #808 is undergoing “burn-in” testing on the route, where it will undergo a period of trial runs before it is put into passenger service. Some of the evaluations include monitoring how the vehicle handles real-world scenarios such as track conditions, signaling systems, and speed limits, and verifying that propulsion, braking, doors, HVAC, and electrical systems are working as intended. KC Streetcar #807 started passenger service in November.

KC Streetcars #809 – #813 are also performing various tests in the Singleton Yard Vehicle Maintenance Facility and on the streetcar route during services hours and overnight. These tests include checks of the braking systems, interior systems such as vehicle leveling, sensors, door mechanisms, onboard digital signage and announcements, and more. As each new vehicle completes testing and becomes certified for service, they will be deployed on the downtown line.