Show FullscreenCANADA: The first of the Mark V automated light metro trainsets whichAlstomis supplying forVancouvers SkyTrain entered service on the Expo Line on July 10.Vancouver transport agency TransLink awarded what was then Bombardier Transportation a C7226m order for 41 five-car trainsets December 2020, and Alstom was awarded a C13m order for a further six sets in May 2024. The total order for 235 cars is the largest placed by TransLink, and includes 125 cars to replace the Mark I vehicles which entered service in 1985 and are to be withdrawn by the end of 2027.The Mark V sets are to be delivered by 2029 for use on both the Expo and Millennium lines, and to support the Broadway subway and Surrey-Langley extension projects. The trainsets will help accommodate growing ridership, with TransLink expecting a 20 increase in use on the Expo Line over the next five years, and a 50 increase on the Millennium Line during peak hours.Design, manufacturing and testing is being undertaken at Alstoms facilities in Kingston, La Pocatière and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, before the vehicles are delivered by 4 600 km across Canada by road. Alstom is proud to deliver Made-in-Canada, best-in-class technology that enhances reliability, optimises performance, said Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas.Show FullscreenEach five-car Mark V trainset can carry 672 passengers, a 25 increase in capacity over the four-car Mark III trains. They have walk-though interiors, with a mix of forward-facing and side seating for greater choice and flexibility, with wider aisles with more standing room, handrails and leaning pads. There are spacious multi-use areas for bikes, luggage, pushchairs, wheelchairs and other mobility devices.Features included improved HVAC, large digital displays showing station information, door chimes and announcements to assist customers who are visually impaired. There are indicator lights at the doors to assist people who have hearing loss by flashing when the doors close, fault warnings are issued or when emergency brakes are deployed.The trainsets have a blue livery, and the interiors feature artwork created by Rain Pierre of qicəy (Katzie First Nation), Atheana Picha of qwɑ:nƛən (Kwantlen First Nation), Brandon Gabriel of qwɑ:nƛən (Kwantlen First Nation), Darryl Blyth of xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam) and Rose Williams of Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation).The new Mark V SkyTrain cars offer metro Vancouver commuters a more comfortable ride, provide a cleaner alternative to driving and make it easier for more people to choose sustainable transportation. Our region is growing, and these trains will shape the future of how we move and explore our community, said Canadas Minister of Housing Infrastructure Gregor Robertson.TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn said the SkyTrain is more than just transportation its part of the identity of metro Vancouver. The Mark V trains represent a bold new chapter, with more space, improvedaccessibilityand cutting-edge features that will enhance every ride. These trains are designed to meet the needs of a growing region and Im excited to see them deliver a better experience for every customer.TopicsAlstomCanadaMetro