TransLink reveals prototype for new SkyTrain cars - Action News
Home WebMail Monday, November 11, 2024, 12:06 AM | Calgary | -0.4°C | Regions Advertise Login | Our platform is in maintenance mode. Some URLs may not be available. |
British Columbia

TransLink reveals prototype for new SkyTrain cars

The next generation of SkyTrain cars will look similar to the most recent Mark III design, with a few changes including new display screens, bike storage and accessibility features, and leaning pads.

The mockupis being used to help TransLink make final decisions on the design

The new Bombardier Mark V will look similar to the most recent Mark III, with a few added features. (Ben Nelms/CBC)

TransLink revealed a mockup of the redesigned interior for the next generation of SkyTrain cars, the Bombardier Mark V.

Last year, Bombardier Transportation signed a $721 million deal with TransLinkto provide 205 new rail cars for the VancouverSkyTrain network, with options to include up to an additional 400 rail cars.

The mockup, which includesleaning pads, bike storage tools and new accessibility features,is being used to help TransLink make final decisions on the design.

The Mark V will look similar to the Mark III rail cars, with a few changes. Passenger display screens have been addedto provide information, such aswayfinding details and transit alerts if routes have changed, according to TransLink spokesperson Tina Lovgreen.

Translink spokesperson Tina Lovgreen shows off the new interior features of the Mark V, including passenger display screens. (Ben Nelms/CBC)

New indicator light strips, placed above doors, will signalto passengers whoare deaf or hard of hearing when doors open and close.

The new cars will also feature primarily forward-facing seating, andinclude more flex space for people using mobility devices, strollers and bicycles.

Other design features being explored arebike storage options,including a slide-in rack or bike straps attached to the wall.

The new rail cars will feature more flex space with leaning pads and bike storage tools. (Ben Nelms/CBC)

According to Lovgreen, the first of these trains will arrive in 2023, with the complete new fleet arrivingby 2027.

She says the new trainswill replace some of the aging Mark I trains and will support new projects, including the Broadway Subway Project.