Watch: First TransLink Mark V SkyTrain on the Move

Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief

Following functional performance testing at Alstom’s Kingston, Ont. plant, the first Mark V SkyTrain set is en route on flatbed trucks to Vancouver, B.C. Upon arrival in Burnaby, the trainset will undergo testing that will last through most of 2024.

***Alstom Skytrain Mark V in Kingston, Ont. © Alstom/C. Fleury***

“The 40 remaining Mark V SkyTrains will gradually join the fleet and enter service by 2028,” TransLink said. “The new Mark V cars will provide customers with a safe and comfortable experience on transit. Customers told us they like the design of Mark III cars, so the Mark V cars will look very similar. They will include additional features, such as more flex space for bike racks and leaning pads, primarily forward-facing seating with some perimeter seating incorporated, and improved on-train displays.”

Mark Vs are configured as five-car trainsets, making them longer than TransLink’s current equipment, and able to carry up to 25% more passengers, in anticipation of the Broadway Subway and Surrey Langley SkyTrain extensions.