Part of the new trains will replace older sets, part will serve to increase capacity.
Spanish rolling stock manufacturer CAF has delivered the first of 54 new sets for London’s Docklands Light Railway. East London’s Docklands light rail public transport system will expand with new trains from 2024.
The first images of the new trains have been published by Transport for London. The city management promises greater capacity and more reliable operation from the new sets. The trains will be fully accessible and air-conditioned. The sets are five-car, they can fit 793 people. They will provide better comfort for wheelchair users, and it will be easier to transport bicycles.
Out of the total contract for 54 trains, 33 will be intended to replace the oldest vehicles. All trains are due to be delivered by the end of 2026, this will allow all sets that were built before 2007 to be phased out.
Others will be used to increase capacity on DLR lines. The increase is to occur mainly in the direction of Stratford and Canary Wharf. The entire area where DLR operates is undergoing major development and an increase in the number of new apartments. The modernization of the DLR is one of the main components of the city’s strategy for more sustainable transport. London wants 80% of journeys across the city to be by public transport, walking or cycling by 2041.
The DLR system has been in operation since 1987 and has been expanded and extended several times. There are currently 149 trains in operation. Their operation is automatic without drivers.
7 comments
