In November 2021, we teased out a sneak peek of TransLink’s new Mark V SkyTrain cars. Now they have entered the testing phase at a facility in Kingston, Ontario, looking fresh.

Functional performance testing at the Alstom facility includes testing the brakes, power systems, doors, car connectivity, as well as propulsion and automatic running on rails to simulate real-life operations.

The 205 new cars are designed to replace the original Mark I models, which are scheduled for retirement by the end of 2027.

The new Mark V SkyTrain design features consist of five-car sets, all internally open-ended with walk-through carriages in the same style as the Mark III trains. They have mostly forward-facing seating and include more space for bikes, luggage, and leaning pads. The new digital interior information displays will provide riders with improved onboard transit alerts. Strip indicator lights at the doors will help individuals with hearing loss by flashing when doors close, fault warnings are issued, or emergency brakes are deployed. The Mark V SkyTrain will utilize door chimes and on-train announcements to support customers with visual impairments.

The purchase of these SkyTrain cars is part of the Expo Millennium Line Upgrade Program. The program receives funding through an investment of $1.47 billion from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, with contributions from the Government of Canada, Government of B.C., and TransLink.

Quotes

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities 

“We are thrilled about the Mark V, the new generation of SkyTrain cars. These modern trains are designed to provide an accessible and user-friendly transit experience for everyone, reflecting our strong commitment to improving public transportation. We are working closely with our partners at TransLink and the Government of BC to keep the SkyTrain system strong and up-to-date, adapting to the changing needs of our communities.”

The Honourable Terry Beech, Member of Parliament for Burnaby North – Seymour and Minister of Citizens’ Services

“The Mark V trains represent a significant milestone in TransLink’s Expo and Millennium Line Upgrade Program, delivering a more comfortable and efficient transit experience for all passengers. With their modern design, enhanced features, and improved accessibility, these trains mark a substantial advancement in the public transportation system and reflect our government and partners’ commitment to work together to meet the diverse needs of our ridership.”

The Honourable Rob Fleming, B.C. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Through investments in TransLink’s 2018 Investment Plan, the Province is supporting the acquisition of modern Mark V SkyTrain cars with updated features. These new cars are thoughtfully designed with spacious interiors to allow room for bikes and luggage and an improved onboard transit alert system to make the cars more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities. These next generation SkyTrain cars will provide a more comfortable and personalized transit experience.”

Brad West, Chair, Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation

“The Mark V will play a vital role as we continue to work on expanding our SkyTrain network across the region. From the Broadway Subway to the Surrey Langley SkyTrain, we remain committed to improving public transit in Metro Vancouver.”

Kevin Quinn, CEO, TransLink

“This is an exciting and important step forward in launching the next generation of SkyTrain cars. The Mark V will make SkyTrain better and more convenient for our customers, with added amenities for people using mobility devices, strollers, and bicycles.”

Michael Keroulle, President of the Americas region at Alstom

“We appreciate our longstanding collaboration with TransLink and share their dedication to connecting communities via sustainable, reliable and inclusive mobility. The first train of the new fleet —designed, build and tested in Canada— is set to commence qualification testing on our upgraded test track at our Kingston, Ontario facility, bringing Vancouverites one step closer to riding the new Mark V trains.”