allowing trains from non-electric territory to access Penn Station for the first time in many years, due to the prohibition on diesel operation in the East River Tunnels leading to Penn Station. They were also the first trains with computerized voices (complete with LED sign displays) announcing stations along the routes. However, over the years of service the automated announcements and LED displays often fell into disrepair, consequently requiring the conductors to make announcements. Starting in 1999, the LIRR bought 836 new electric M7 electric multiple units from Bombardier, replacing its M1 cars. These cars have an automatic station announcement and LED sign display system. Delivery started in the early 2000s, with the first ones beginning revenue service in October 2002. On September 19, 2013, it was announced that the LIRR would procure new M9/M9A cars from Kawasaki. This procurement includes a firm initial order of 92 cars. Given sufficient funding, another 324 cars will be ordered. The cars will replace the M3s and expand the fleet in preparation for service to Grand Central Madison via East Side Access. The cars are being assembled at Kawasaki's plant in Lincoln, Nebraska. The first M9s entered revenue service debut on September 11, 2019. As of June 2022, 132 M9s have been delivered to the LIRR, and their procurement was nearly three years behind schedule. For the summer of 2017, the LIRR leased 8 single-level coaches from MARC in order to free up their C3 coaches for the Montauk Branch. The automated announcements provided on the C3 and M7 railcars are voiced by WALL radio host Van Ritshie. Active rolling stock Locomotives Push-pull coaches Electric multiple units References Long Island Rail Road Rolling stock of the United States