New Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains with larger capacity are being tested on the network before being brought into full-time use.
Transport for London (TfL) confirmed on Wednesday the B23 DLR train is on track to clock up the 20,000 kilometres (12,427 miles) of trial running needed before it can be brought into passenger use.
The new trains will have a 10 per cent greater capacity than the existing models. This will be due to the trains existing as one unit without carriages.
They will also be air-conditioned, have passenger information screens, and USB ports — all things that were not on the old trains. The extra space will also allow greater room for mobility scooters and disabled passengers.
The new-look models, which have a special livery to distinguish their testing status, are now being run out during the day having previously been trialled at night. Passengers on the Stratford to Canning Town branch of the line have seen the new B23s in action.
Arran Rusling, TfL’s head of programme for the DLR Rolling Stock Replacement Programme, said: “We have just completed our first weekend of signalling integration testing for the new B23 DLR train, which was very successful overall.
“Testing of the new trains will continue both in the evenings during engineering hours and during planned closures at weekends.
“Later this year, customers will start to see this train being tested between regular services, with it easily identified by its new teal colour livery and specially designed train wrap.”
It is a sight that could be commonplace this year. The first B23s are set to enter service next year and the full fleet of 54 will be running by 2026. Of these, 33 will replace 33 older DLR trains and 10 will increase capacity on the network.
The Housing Infrastructure Fund has paid for 11 of the trains to provide infrastructure for housing developments in the Royal Docks area.
The DLR is famous for having trains without drivers and with seats at the front. This can often lead to passengers sitting in front of the window as if they are driving.
And while the trains will be larger, it is understood this iconic design feature will be kept on the B23 model.
