Alstom and its long-time Vancouver partner, TransLink, announced that the first new generation SkyTrain vehicles, an automated light metro fleet known as the Mark V, are going into service. 

By the end of 2025, several of these five-car trains will be running on the Expo Line and Millennium Line network, a significant milestone in the modernization of Vancouver’s rapid transit system.

“The entry into service of the state-of-the-art Mark V light metro fleet marks a new chapter in sustainable urban mobility,” said Michael Keroullé, president, Alstom Americas.

“The SkyTrain is more than just transportation – it’s part of the identity of Metro Vancouver,” added Kevin Quinn, TransLink’s CEO. “The Mark V trains represent a bold new chapter, with more space, improved accessibility, and cutting-edge features that will enhance every ride.”

TransLink’s New Alstom Mark Vs

These driverless light metros are the longest and highest-capacity trains on the SkyTrain network to date, according to Alstom. 

With the additional order from TransLink to supply six five-car Mark V trains for the SkyTrain network in 2024, the agency has ordered a total of 235 Mark V cars (47 trains). Each five-car Mark V train can carry 672 passengers, a 25% increase in capacity over the current four-car Mark III trains.

Offering more comfort for passengers, the new cars feature improved interior designs, interconnected wagons, new seating and standing configurations, indigenous artwork, enhanced HVAC, and extensive digital displays that show station information. 

Made in Canada

The “Made-in-Canada" trains are designed, manufactured, and tested at Alstom facilities in Kingston, Ontario, and La Pocatière and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, in Quebec. 

At peak production, 282 people were working directly on this project, excluding the jobs and economic benefits generated through our local supply chain.

With approximately 5,000 highly skilled Canadian employees, Alstom is the only global rail mobility manufacturer to have production facilities in the country, the company stated.