Dallas to unveil new rail vehicles

Dallas Area Rapid Transit has begun modifying its current fleet of light rail vehicles with the addition of a new, low-floor section.

The modified cars are known as Super Light Rail Vehicles (SLRVs) because of the greater length and added passenger capacity. The SLRV will seat approximately 100 passengers compared with 75 on the current vehicles. Standing passengers on the vehicle can nearly double the capacity. A new center section has been added to the vehicles to increase seating capacity and improve access through level boarding, allowing passengers with disabilities — plus people with strollers or bicycles — to step or roll directly onto the trains without using mechanical lifts.  

The newly modified cars will begin service in early summer 2008. The vehicle conversion is scheduled for completion by the end of 2010.