Vancouver, British Columbia is entering a bold new era of public transportation with the unveiling of Alstom’s Mark V SkyTrain vehicles, a next-generation fleet that promises to redefine rapid transit in one of Canada’s fastest-growing urban regions. In partnership with TransLink, Metro Vancouver’s regional transportation authority, Alstom has introduced the first of 47 new five-car driverless trains set to begin service by late 2025 on the Expo and Millennium Lines.
This modernization project underscores the city’s commitment to building a smarter, greener, and more efficient transit system, one that meets rising passenger demand while supporting environmental sustainability goals.
Mark V: The Future of Vancouver’s SkyTrain System
The new Mark V trains represent a major upgrade in both design and capacity. Each five-car train can accommodate up to 672 passengers, which is a 25% increase compared to the older four-car Mark III models. The additional space will help reduce overcrowding, especially during rush hours, and improve the overall commuter experience.
Key features of the new Mark V trains include:
- Open-gangway car design for seamless movement between cars
- Real-time digital information displays for station updates
- Spacious interiors with better seating and standing room
- Wide doors and improved accessibility features
- Climate-controlled cabins with energy-efficient HVAC systems
- Incorporation of Indigenous artwork, reflecting local heritage
These enhancements are designed to make travel across Vancouver’s SkyTrain system not just faster, but also more inclusive, informative, and comfortable for daily riders and visitors alike.
Supporting Vancouver’s Growing Transit Demand
As Greater Vancouver’s population nears 3 million, the need for high-capacity, reliable public transport has never been greater. According to TransLink, SkyTrain ridership continues to rise, with projections expecting continued growth through 2030 and beyond.
The new fleet will help TransLink meet this increasing demand by:
- Reducing platform wait times
- Improving travel times across key corridors
- Enhancing reliability during peak operational hours
- Preparing for future network expansions, including the Broadway Subway Project
By investing in advanced rail technology now, the city is ensuring its infrastructure can scale with urban development, offering a sustainable alternative to car-based commuting and reducing road congestion.
Built in Canada, Powered by Local Expertise
Alstom’s Mark V trains are designed, manufactured, and tested entirely in Canada, with major production hubs located in Kingston, Ontario, and La Pocatière and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec. This homegrown manufacturing initiative supports Canada’s economy and highlights the importance of investing in local talent and advanced rail technology.
At the height of production, over 280 skilled workers were involved in the assembly of the Mark V trains, with many more supported through the extended Canadian supply chain. Alstom remains the only global rail mobility company with a direct production presence in Canada, employing approximately 5,000 workers nationwide.
This strategic domestic production reinforces both Alstom’s and TransLink’s dedication to sustainable procurement and long-term maintenance capabilities, ensuring that Canada remains a leader in rail innovation.
Advancing Sustainability in Urban Mobility
The Mark V fleet is engineered with energy-efficient systems and low-emission technology, aligning with Vancouver’s Greenest City Action Plan and Canada’s broader climate change objectives. The integration of electric propulsion, regenerative braking, and lightweight materials all contribute to minimizing the carbon footprint of Vancouver’s transit operations.
In tandem with TransLink’s broader sustainability goals, these new trains will help:
- Lower per-passenger emissions
- Encourage transit adoption over private vehicle use
- Support clean growth and green jobs in Canada
The system’s driverless automation also optimizes train operations to conserve energy and improve scheduling flexibility.
Designed with Community and Culture in Mind
Beyond performance, the Mark V trains are designed to celebrate Vancouver’s cultural diversity. Each train incorporates artwork from local Indigenous artists, paying tribute to the traditions and stories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations, whose ancestral lands the transit system operates on.
This cultural inclusion ensures that the SkyTrain system continues to be more than just a transit option—it becomes a shared public space that reflects the people and history of British Columbia.
Looking Ahead: A Smarter SkyTrain for Tomorrow
The introduction of Alstom’s Mark V trains is more than a rolling stock upgrade—it’s a strategic investment in the future of Vancouver’s urban mobility. The partnership between Alstom and TransLink highlights a shared vision: a city where clean, efficient, and accessible public transportation forms the backbone of sustainable urban growth.
By 2027, the full fleet of 235 Mark V cars (47 trains) will be in service, reinforcing Vancouver’s role as one of North America’s pioneers in automated rapid transit. With modern design, cutting-edge technology, and community-focused features, these trains will keep Vancouver moving—faster, greener, and smarter than ever before.
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