Ziad Rizk, site manager at Bombardier in Kingston, envisioned an outstanding design firm with no prior train experience. Advanta's proposal to design the facade of the Innovia ART 300 train cars was accepted, bringing immense delight. Initially focused on the facade, the project evolved into a comprehensive development, encompassing every technical aspect, from the windshield to the lighting system. Two complete prototypes were delivered for testing in Kingston, presenting an exciting challenge. The resulting innovations will be deployed on railway lines across three continents, starting with Vancouver's new trains in 2016.

Bombardier's new design requests included a larger front windshield, updated style, and a sense of speed. The goal was to convey speed for a suburban train at 90 km/h, not a TGV at 320 km/h, yet it had to be more dynamic than its ART Mark II predecessors. Advanta offers extensive experience and understanding of production technologies, aiming for aesthetically pleasing solutions that simplify manufacturing, assembly, and use. This perspective identifies opportunities beyond surface aesthetics.

During the project definition, a tolerance issue was identified. Advanta, with an external perspective, proposed a simple solution. As consultants, our "intelligent ignorance" involves offering a fresh perspective without biases. The "intelligence" lies in our years of product development experience, combined with an approach that blends technical pragmatism and visual design. Acknowledging our partial understanding of clients, we avoid preconceptions. This freedom leads to innovative solutions, akin to the little boy declaring that "the Emperor had no clothes."

Understanding ergonomic issues and windshield visibility requires large-scale models. For a train with a massive windshield, foam models and a life-sized replica were crucial. Immersed in the train's context, we appreciated details, identified innovation opportunities, and designed a cohesive solution. Hands-on full-scale drawings aided in grasping proportions accurately. Tape murals refined concepts, streamlining form and size realistically.

Advanta offered a full-service solution, managing design to testing for Bombardier. They oversaw design, sourcing, manufacturing, and prototypes, working with management, certification experts, and Bombardier engineers. Advanta ensured detailed design completion, ordering, and component delivery. They coordinated design, tooling, manufacturing, and testing, delivering all parts. With computer-aided design and prototyping, units assemble seamlessly, rare in large vehicle manufacturing. New units operate on Kingston's test track.

Bombardier was impressed by the remarkable design advantages achieved with this mechanical design direction. With faster initial assembly and solutions for tolerance issues, it offers more efficient maintenance and repairs. This structure allows for visual customization without requiring recertification, providing unparalleled flexibility to clients who need to redesign. In the image on the right, the superstructure can be seen beneath the aesthetic panels.

The Innovia project fostered a cohesive team and knowledge-sharing culture. All team members in this picture are still with us, mentoring younger designers. At Advanta, loyalty is valued, upholding our workplace reputation.

Featured designers:Patrick (1998), Jean-Sébastien (2000), Sebastien B. (2004), Vincent H. (2008). Although not depicted in the picture, André Huard, who joined in 2006, is also appreciated and Kent Davidson, our team photographer since 1992.