Watch: First TransLink Mark V SkyTrain on the Move
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-ChiefFollowing 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.
“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.