Vancouver’s SkyTrain network has introduced the first of its new Mark V trains into commercial operation. Manufactured by Alstom in Canada, the five-car automated trains are now running on the Expo Line as part of efforts to expand capacity and modernise Metro Vancouver’s rapid transit system.
TransLink has ordered a total of 235 Mark V cars, equivalent to 47 trains, which are due to enter service progressively through to the end of 2025 on both the Expo and Millennium lines.
The driverless Mark V trains are designed to carry up to 672 passengers per set, which is around 25% more than the four-car Mark III trains currently in service.
The new trains feature interconnected carriages, redesigned seating and standing layouts, large digital displays showing real-time station information, and an updated heating and cooling system. Indigenous artwork is also incorporated into the interior design.
Kevin Quinn, CEO, TransLink said:The SkyTrain is more than just transportation – it’s part of the identity of Metro Vancouver. The Mark V trains represent a bold new chapter, with more space, improved accessibility, and cutting-edge features that will enhance every ride. These trains are designed to meet the needs of a growing region, and I am excited to see them deliver a better experience for every customer.
Alstom’s Canadian production sites in Kingston, Ontario, and in La Pocatière and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec, have been responsible for designing, manufacturing and testing the new trains.
At peak production, approximately 280 people were directly involved in the project, alongside additional roles supported through Alstom’s Canadian supply chain.
Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas said:The entry into service of the state-of-the-art Mark V light metro fleet marks a new chapter in sustainable urban mobility. Alstom is proud to deliver “Made-in-Canada”, best-in-class technology that enhances reliability, optimises performance, supports TransLink’s long-term vision for a smarter, greener transit network and makes travelling by transit better and easier for the people of Vancouver.
Alstom has supplied rolling stock for Vancouver’s SkyTrain network since it opened in 1985. The Mark V is the latest development in that partnership.
David van der Wee, Vice-President Rolling Stock North America at Alstom said:Alstom Canada is proud to have been the main rolling stock supplier for the SkyTrain since its debut in 1985. A recognised model of reliability among automated systems around the world, the SkyTrain is part of Vancouver’s unique identity and a testament to Canadian ingenuity. Vancouver transit users will be very well served by this new generation of remarkable Canadian-made vehicles that incorporate the world’s most advanced technology.
