I would be interested to see exactly what Alstom’s business model is for this plant. The plant has one customer. Its the government. Specifically the Government of Ontario. The City of Toronto is involved but nothing happens without the Province’s funding. The Federal Government? Maybe some but not much.
Sooo, how does that work? Is the plant really competitive any more? It cannot compete against Asian companies that are located on the other side of the world for a rail car contract here in Ontario. How is that possible? Its their own back yard.
I believe the plant has simply become too expensive. They have priced themselves out of the market. They are now dependent on the kindness of strangers. Charity contracts.
With no provincial election expected for four or five years, I believe the plant’s glory days are well behind them. No future for this plant.