After two years of feedback and design meetings, TransLink recently unveiled what the newest generation of SkyTrains will look like.
Dubbed the Mark V, the first new cars are expected to arrive in 2023 for testing. Based on feedback collected in 2019, the new cars will take many design cues from the commuter’s favourite Mark III cars with some new additions. The refreshed design hints at more flex space for bike racks and leaning pads, primarily forward-facing seating and improved on-train displays.
“This design reflects what we heard through surveys and public engagement,” TransLink wrote in a Nov. 12 release. “While the interior mock-up of the Mark V has been created to assist with the design process, it is a representation of what our future SkyTrain car might look like, rather than a replica of the final product.”
The new passenger information display content will provide transit alerts and there will be new indicator lights at the doors to assist people who are hard of hearing or deaf. The Mark V’s will also continue to operate with door chimes and on-train announcements to assist customers who are blind or partially sighted.
A full complement of vehicles is expected to be in service by 2027.
