TransLink has released the first photos and videos of the new Mark V SkyTrain cars, which have entered their testing phase at a facility in Kingston, Ontario.

Functional performance testing at the Alstom facility will include testing the brakes, power systems, doors, and car connectivity, as well as propulsion and automatic running on rails to simulate real-life operations.

According to TransLink's news release, 205 new cars are designed to eventually replace the original Mark I models, which are slated for retirement by the end of 2027.

Details of the Mark V Design

The Mark V design features consist of five-car sets, all internally open-ended with walk-through carriages in the same style as the Mark III trains.

They have mostly forward-facing seating and include more space for bikes, luggage, and leaning pads.

The new digital interior information displays will provide riders with improved onboard transit alerts.

Strip indicator lights at the doors will assist people who have hearing loss by flashing when doors close, fault warnings are issued, or when emergency brakes are deployed.

The Mark V trains will operate with door chimes and on-train announcements to assist customers who are visually impaired.

The purchase of these SkyTrain cars is part of the Expo Millennium Line Upgrade Program.

The program is funded with an investment of $1.47 billion through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program with contributions from the Government of Canada, the Government of B.C., and TransLink.