 The bidding process began in December 2008.WMATA issued a notice to proceed to Kawasaki on July 27, 2010, after receiving funding from the Federal Transit Administration, although delivery was delayed due to issues with suppliers following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.Under the contract, Metro originally agreed to purchase 428 7000-series railcars, both to replace its 1000-series cars and provide service for the new Silver Line.